A few years back Germany implemented a new highway code regulation that makes the installation of winter tyres on all axles compulsory from November 1st to April 15 for all passenger vehicles and motorcycles (yes, that goes for foreigners also), that is if the vehicle is driven through wintery conditions such as snow, black ice, or frost. Note: You are good, when it's just mild and wet in winter.
The rule is simple: If you get caught driving on summer tires you will get fined, if you get stuck or delay traffic you will get fined double, if you cause an accident you will get fined big time, gather some points and likely pay for the damage caused yourself (the insurance will cover for the damage to the aggrieved party, however it will reclaim moneys from the responsible party). Also, one could lose insurance coverage for the future.
Red: Winter tryres mandatory!
We had recently fitted winter tyres to our car, surprised how cheap they were compared to cost in Canada. So far we haven't seen any snow but mornings are getting a bit nippy lately. Temperatures are around 0C (32F), and aren't climbing much during the day. No winter tyre conditions yet, but for all we care, the white stuff doesn't have to visit, because sans snow and ice we will be good just to ride on.
Oh wow, I did not know that motorcycles need to have winter tires in Germany, that must be something fairly new. I am pretty sure the white stuff will visit you sooner or later ... it'll be "Dashing through the snow on a two wheel open bike ..." for you. Not much white stuff here yet and spring like temps today. Next week maybe ...
ReplyDeleteWe have been promised snow on the surrounding mountains this weekend. So far all is well in our little valley. Weather here seems to be similar to the lower mainland temperature wise but with less rain.
DeleteI don't believe that we have a winter tire requirement in Alaska. There are laws about when studded tires are allowed to be used. After the first snowfall, there are usually a lot of out of state vehicles off the road due to unsuitable tires. Including a lot of 4WD "unstoppable" types, lifted trucks, etc. A common phrase is "4WD allows you to get stuck 25' further down the road".
ReplyDeleteWell I assume that when living in Alaska it should come with common sense to put on winter tyres in winter, shouldn't it? In Germany we haven't got a lot of winter, but the few days cause so much chaos that the highway code had been adjusted to prevent further mayhem on the road.
DeleteWell, at least the authorities there exercise some modicum of judgement in not rigidly enforcing the snow tire rule when weather conditions are fair. Bobskoot's posting of the RCMP handing out tickets to motorcyclists out riding in good weather but without snow tires really irritates me still.
ReplyDeleteI am sure that there will be police officers around who will interpret the law to the letter in Germany as well, but the regulation states very clearly: "…when conditions are wintery…", to exactly prevent going blindly by the date.
DeleteSensible law. I'd vote for it. Actually, I think Montana has chain laws for winter...
ReplyDeleteChains are mandatory in certain mountainous areas of Germany as well, however as long as the roads are clear of snow, chains are not allowed because of the damage they cause to the road. Also, studded tyres are forbidden.
DeleteBob, that the RCMP simply enforces the rule by date sounds ridiculous to me. Why bother when it is 15C plus at Christmas (we've had that last year).
ReplyDeleteI have not seen icicle tyres for motorcycles (exception scooters), but presumably you would be certified insane riding any 2 wheeler in snow or ice.
ReplyDeleteNiether have I with the exception of scooters. We are going to get some, or may even buy another scooter for winter only...
DeleteIt's just that time of year. I hope you don't have any white stuff for a while so you can keep scootering on.
ReplyDeleteConsider me only very recently aware of rules regarding mandatory tires in winter; I had no idea. Very interesting! We once, years ago allowed studs on MN roads but no longer though every once in awhile in more rural areas I hear the buzz of someone that never got the memo.
ReplyDelete