Who says snow season and ski resort, also says snowy roads, ice and preparations! Indeed, riding on snow requires adequate equipment as well as knowledge of the different regulations in force in France and Europe . What equipment to choose and in what situations? How to properly prepare for bad weather and avoid any contravention due to ignorance of these regulations?
EUROPEAN REGULATIONS IN FORCE
Because safety on the road is essential, good snow equipment is essential for driving on snowy or icy roads. This equipment is therefore governed by strict regulations . Be careful when you decide to buy snow equipment, and check if it meets European Union standards , in particular thanks to the CE logo which means “ compliant with the requirements ”.
THE MOUNTAIN LAW
The Mountain Law 2 , or law for the modernization, development and protection of mountain territories, effective from November 1, 2021 until March 31, 2022 then each year, causes big changes for users using mountain roads. Certain municipalities and areas of mountain ranges can only be used by vehicles with adequate equipment, that is to say non-removable or removable anti-slip devices .
Depending on the country of the European Union in which you are traveling, the regulations may be different and you must therefore consult the legislation of each country regarding winter tires. Countries such as Germany, Sweden, and Luxembourg make anti-slip devices mandatory. The aim is to make traffic flow more smoothly and reduce the risk of accidents .
Mountain snow law 48 departments in France. A poorly equipped vehicle in these areas during winter risks a class 4 fine, amounting to €135 as well as immobilization . possible of his vehicle.
PANEL B26, WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
B26 signs are traffic signs making the use of snow chains compulsory . They are round in shape, representing a tire equipped with white snow chains on a blue background. Any vehicle passing this sign must be equipped with snow chains on at least two drive wheels . It is possible to use snow socks, although not recommended due to their fragility, or approved over-tyres . If the B26 sign is accompanied by the words “snow tires allowed” then you can drive with your 4 snow tires and specific equipment is not obligatory. Panel B44 representing the same sign but crossed out by an oblique red line, indicates the end of the obligation. In this case, the snow chains must be removed , if conditions permit. In fact, if the roadway is not snow-covered, it is prohibited from driving with such equipment.
SNOW TIRES, CHAINS AND TIRE SOCKS, OR OVER-TIRE: WHAT EQUIPMENT TO CHOOSE FOR YOUR CAR?
This year, there is no question of skipping anti-slip devices for your winter holidays. However, choosing your equipment remains difficult and many parameters must be taken into account: ease of installation and use, price, approval, performance, adaptability on dry asphalt, snow, resistance over long journeys, etc.
Of course the regulations cited above are essential for the safety of users, they nevertheless remain restrictive without appropriate equipment.
Indeed, the roads or portions of roads concerned by the Mountain Law as well as by sign B26 often include passages under tunnels . or non-snow-covered slopes . It is therefore impossible to ride with chains or standard snow socks. Motorists must therefore stop to remove their equipment and then put it back on again in snowy areas, which often turns out to be laborious and tedious , in addition to causing situations of insecurity .
AN ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION: MUSHER ANTI-SLIP OVER-TIRES
Driving in the mountains and on risky roads requires total concentration from the driver. It is therefore essential to use appropriate equipment , which combines safety and practicality .
Product of a French innovation patented by the INPI and approved to European standards for driving on roads covered by the B26 sign , Musher anti-slip over-tires are designed to allow you to drive up to 150 km , on snowy, icy roads and even on dry asphalt at a speed of 50 km/h . No risk of wear or tear, typical of standard snow socks thanks to their composition of high tenacity technical fibers . Easy and fast to ride in 5 minutes , drive legally thanks to Musher over-tyres and enjoy a comfortable ride and safe !