One-third of Czechs go by car to the mountains in winter, much of it to the Alps. Here is an overview of what is good to know. And also information for others who prefer to fly in the heat in winter.
Although the first two weeks in July have long been the most exposed holiday date of the year, Czechs also indulge in weekly relaxation in winter. We usually go to the mountains, the most popular are home resorts and the Alps. We go to Austria for the weekend, we choose Italy for longer stays. The hit of recent years in France and increasingly accessible Switzerland.
Brands requiring chains are becoming more widespread, so we recommend packing them on the way to the trunk. And beware that liquid spray chains are not considered by local police to be a duty. The fines are greasy! The rules for winter equipment are not uniform. So if you are going to Ukraine, the M + S rubber must even be at least 6 mm deep. What to watch out for?
Austria
Our southern neighbors have raised ten-day highway signs for this year to 9.40 euros, ie 238 CZK. They are required to prescribe winter tires from 1 November to 15 April, and infringements face heavy fines. Toll mountain sections and roads may be closed in winter.
Pay attention to the rule that if vehicles cannot pass safely on mountain roads, they must stop. Those that find it easier are required to back up or turn around.
Snow chains are only permitted on continuously snowy roads or wherever the mark requires it.
Only the orange safety vest that passengers must wear each time they get out of the car in an accident is accepted.
Italy
Czechs like the Italian Alps for connected ski resort complexes. Unfortunately, the road will become more expensive through paid tunnels and a long journey. Winter tires are compulsory from 15 October to 15 April in the Val d´Aosta area on the Swiss-French border. Elsewhere from November 1.
And beware, tires marked M + S must have a minimum pattern of 4 mm even in summer. In Italy, it is forbidden to commute them to 1.6 mm, as you are allowed out of season with us, for example.
It is forbidden to tow vehicles on the highway.
On a narrow road, a heavier vehicle takes precedence over a lighter one.
Lighting is mandatory on the highway and in the tunnel.
Anti-radar devices are prohibited.