From 15 November – Winter tyres and rental cars: Seeland Mobility informs you about winter tyres.

Are Winter Tires Mandatory?

In Switzerland, there is no law that requires you to equip your car with winter tires. However, you must be able to control your vehicle in any situation. This means that in the event of a car accident, you can be held liable if you are driving with summer tires in winter.

Therefore, rental cars should also be equipped with such equipment; otherwise, the renter is liable. It is important, especially for long-term rentals, to regularly check the tires, as the responsibility and inspection lie entirely with the renter.

Experts recommend switching to winter tires from October onwards. It is advisable to change your tires before the first snowfall. In general, it is recommended to use winter tires from October to Easter. The driver is liable for damages caused by incorrect tires. Please check when booking whether the rental car is equipped with winter tires and whether the tires are in good condition. Tire profiles should be checked without fail. At Seeland Mobility – Seeland Rent a car in Biel, the vehicles are always equipped with winter tires.

When driving your car abroad, it is important to comply with the respective laws, as each country has its own winter tire regulations.

Germany:

In Germany, no one is required to use winter tires during the cold season. However, driving on winter roads with summer tires is prohibited. Violations can result in fines. This means that anyone driving a car in snow, ice, or frosty conditions must have suitable winter tires. Otherwise, a fine may be imposed.

Austria:

Cars and trucks with a maximum total weight of up to 3.5 tons are allowed to be used in winter conditions such as snow, slush, or ice between November 1 and April 15, only if all wheels are equipped with winter tires. Alternatively, snow chains on at least two drive wheels are allowed, but only when the road is covered with a continuous or not obviously interrupted layer of snow or ice.

France:

In France, as of November 1, 2021, winter tires are mandatory under specific conditions. This rule applies to the following mountain ranges: Alps, Corsica, Central Massif, Jura Massif, Pyrenees, and Vosges.

According to the new law, the vehicle must be equipped with either four winter tires or snow chains must be carried to equip at least two drive wheels.

Italy:

There is no general requirement for winter tires in Italy. However, certain winter or all-season tires may not be used during the summer months.

Winter tire requirements apply only in Aosta Valley from November 15 to April 15. Individual routes may be temporarily mandated under appropriate weather conditions.

Denmark:

There is no general requirement for winter tires in Denmark. Instead, snow chains can be used on the drive wheels, but only when the road is continuously or almost continuously covered with snow or ice.

Lithuania:

In Lithuania, winter-ready tires must be used from November 10 to April 1, whether they are winter or all-season tires. The tread depth must be at least 3 millimeters for the tires to be considered winter-ready.

Iceland:

While winter tires are not required in Iceland, tires with a minimum tread depth of 3 millimeters must be used from November 1 to April 14.

Albania:

Winter tires are not mandatory, but snow chains are required between November 1 and April 30.

Russia, Serbia, and Slovenia:

They require mandatory winter tires, and snow chains must be carried in the car.

Romania:

Winter tires are not mandatory, but from November 1 to April 14, tires with a minimum tread depth of 2 millimeters must be used.

Croatia:

In the presence of snow, ice, and rain, at least two winter tires must be mounted on the vehicle. Snow chains and a shovel must be carried.

Norway:

Winter tires or snow chains must be used when there is a closed snow cover or ice on the road. Carrying snow chains is mandatory.

Macedonia:

Winter tires are not mandatory, but snow chains must be carried.

Spain:

Winter tires are only mandatory in certain regions of Spain. Pay attention to the corresponding traffic signs indicating where winter tires or snow chains are required.