Winter Tyres and Hire Cars

If you’re lucky enough to be having a white Christmas this year in Europe, don’t let the snowy conditions hinder you from driving. Not only can hire car companies provide customers with a vehicle, but certain depots throughout Europe will also be able to supply a car with winter tyres at an additional cost.

You may be thinking to yourself I don’t need winter tyres nor do I want to pay an additional amount. But before you start assuming that this is just a scheme by hire companies to acquire additional cash over the holiday season, you may need to read on.

Currently the topic of snow tyres really get peoples blood boiling, but who is right and what are the current laws set in most European countries.

In November 2010 Germany changed their requirements for winter tyres during the snow and ice season. It is now mandatory when driving in icy conditions to have the correct tyres , in case you are driving a vehicle without winter tyres between October and April and are caught you will obtain quiet a hefty fine.

Another country which we see many people flocking to in this season is Switzerland. It is very unclear whether or not there is a law to say if they are required and a lot of websites out there contradict each other. Luckily I have an answer; most car hire suppliers have made it compulsory in their contracts for their vehicles to contain winter tyres in this season.

Here is some further information on locations throughout Europe:

Latvia, Finland, Estonia have introduced the mandatory law of winter tyres during December 1st until the end of February.

Austria it is mandatory to have winter tyres between November 1st and April 15th and snow chains may be required for certain locations.

Denmark, Italy, Belgium, France and Netherlands, have only recommended winter tyres for this season.

Therefore we can come to the conclusion that many countries in Europe will require drivers to have a vehicle with the correct tyres. Not only will you receive a fine if caught, but if you are involved in any type of accident and the correct tyres are not on your vehicle there is a high chance of your insurance being void and you being left with the bill.

So if you’re planning a European holiday over winter, make sure you check that your vehicle either includes winter tyres in the costing or if you will need to put some penny’s aside to pay for these additional extras upon collection.

If you are planning on travelling to Europe make sure you check out Driveaway Holidays, we can assist you with finding a depot location which will provide winter tyres and allow you to travel safely these holidays with you family.