In Germany, there is no explicit legal obligation that you have to drive with winter tires in ice and snow. However, it may well come to a joint liability in accidents with insufficient tires, furthermore, car insurance can refuse performance due to gross negligence. To 01.01.2006 the road traffic regulations (§2 exp. 3a) by the following sentence were supplemented: “With motor vehicles the equipment is to be adapted to the weather conditions. This includes in particular suitable tires and antifreeze in the windshield washer system.”
The advantages of winter tires
German motorists are now increasingly relying on winter tires during the cold season. And for good reason: summer tires, which have good grip, are less suitable for winter use, because if temperatures drop below plus seven degrees, the tires’ grip properties also decline rapidly. Winter tires, on the other hand, are then in top form. Thanks to their special rubber compound, they offer a shorter braking distance, better grip, more lateral stability and thus greater safety. Before using winter tires, always take a look at the tread – if they no longer have sufficient tread, they are no longer suitable for winter use. The tread depth should not be less than four millimeters and the tires should not be older than six years.
What should be carried in the car in winter?
- Gloves, ice scraper, blanket.
- De-icing agent for the windshield
- Jumper cables, tow rope
