In Austria, the situational winter tire requirement ended in mid-April. But especially this spring, experts advise against hasty action.
Vienna – Different countries, different customs, so they say. But the rules and obligations are often different. And so car vacationers must be well informed before traveling abroad so as not to make any unpleasant mistakes. In Austria the legal situation will change in mid-April.
Because from mid-April the situational winter tire requirement ends in Austria. This applies in the Alpine Republic from November 1st to April 15th. During this time, cars and trucks up to 3.5 tons may only be driven on winter road conditions such as snow, slush or ice if winter tires are installed on all four wheels. Interestingly, the Austrian administration also explains an alternative: “As an alternative to winter tires,” snow chains can also be used on at least two drive wheels. However, only if the road “is covered with a continuous or not significantly interrupted layer of snow or ice”.
Situational winter tire requirements in Austria end in April
It is precisely this obligation that ends in Austria on April 15th. One difference from Germany: In this country, the situational winter tire requirement applies all year round in wintry road conditions, according to the ADAC. Anyone who violates the obligation in Germany must expect a fine of 60 euros or more and one point in Flensburg. In Austria there is also a fine of 60 euros or more. If other road users are endangered, the fine can increase to up to 5,000 euros.
But does that mean that you can now safely use summer tires in Austria? Not at all!
Lots of sun and high temperatures have created summer feelings in many places in the last few days. But there is a massive change in the weather. In the Alps, including Austria, there is a threat of a thick pack of fresh snow this week.
Austria's automobile club warns of tire defects
Because of the changeable weather situation in April, the Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC) only recommends switching to summer tires when it is warmer for a longer period of time. In general, there is nothing against switching over earlier, but: “You should always keep an eye on the weather forecast, because only if it is consistently warm and you are, for example, For example, if you haven’t planned a trip to the mountains, you should really change,” says ÖAMTC technician Steffan Kerbl. “Regardless of the date, summer tires have no place on winter roads,” the expert continued.
Because of the current weather situation, holidaymakers in Austria should probably stick with winter tires for the time being, as in many places there is even a risk of daily low temperatures around freezing point.
In addition, you should now keep an even closer eye on the speedometer when driving in Austria: There is a new, tough speed law in effect. (rist)