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VIENNA – Austria’s seasonal winter tyre requirement comes into force on November 1, obliging motorists to ensure their vehicles are equipped for hazardous winter road conditions. The regulation remains in effect until April 15 of the following year and applies whenever roads are covered by snow, slush, or ice.
Under Austrian law, passenger cars, light commercial vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, and so-called “moped cars” must use suitable winter tyres when winter conditions prevail. The Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC) reminds drivers that compliant winter tyres must have a minimum tread depth of four millimetres and display either the M+S (Mud and Snow) marking or the snowflake symbol.
Motorists planning trips abroad should also be aware of differing regulations. In Germany, rules introduced in 2024 recognize only tyres bearing the snowflake symbol as winter tyres. This requirement also applies to Austrian-registered vehicles travelling on German roads.
Drivers who unexpectedly encounter snowy roads while still using summer tyres may use snow chains as a temporary solution. However, the chains must be fitted to the vehicle’s drive axle and removed once the snow-covered section of road has ended. ÖAMTC traffic lawyer Christina Holzer-Weiß warned motorists not to continue driving with chains on clear road surfaces.
Severe penalties and insurance risks
Authorities can impose fines of up to €10,000 on motorists who drive without appropriate winter equipment in winter road conditions. Beyond financial penalties, drivers also face potential complications with insurance coverage in the event of an accident.
According to the ÖAMTC, liability insurers may seek reimbursement from drivers who failed to comply with the regulations, while comprehensive insurance providers could refuse to cover damages.
Repair shops face seasonal rush
As the deadline approaches, vehicle repair shops and tyre service centres across Austria are once again experiencing a sharp increase in demand from motorists arranging seasonal tyre changes.
Experts advise drivers not to wait until the last moment. In addition to booking appointments early, motorists are encouraged to check tyre tread depth in advance and combine the tyre change with a broader winter vehicle inspection to ensure their cars are prepared for colder weather and challenging road conditions.
The annual winter tyre requirement is intended to improve road safety during the colder months and reduce the risk of accidents caused by inadequate vehicle equipment.
- source: kurier.at/picture: pixabay.com
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