Winter holidays without unpleasant surprises
Soon all students in Poland will begin their winter holidays. Many parents wish to take their children to the mountains. However, there are certain things that need to be checked before you will be able to hit the road.
Efficient car is the key to your safety
Checking the technical condition of the vehicle is the basis of preparation for any longer route. It is also necessary to check the engine oil level, a coolant and a washer. If needed, they should be refilled. In addition, it is crucial to check if the lightbulbs lit properly and the wipers collect water as they should. Having good visibility will boost your driving confidence and help to increase the level of safety. Not everyone, of course, is able to do it himself. In that case, it is recommended to go to a service or a diagnostic station, so that your car is checked thoroughly by specialists. They may also discover some elements, not visible with the naked eye but requiring an immediate repair.
You should also check whether you really have the basic equipment, ie. a fire extinguisher, a warning triangle, a vest and a first aid kit. They are the elements of a mandatory equipment, therefore, in the absence of any of the things mentioned above, you should buy it immediately.
Winter tires and snow chains - mandatory?
In Poland there is no obligation to install winter tires and chains. - However, taking into account the climate zone in which our country is located and our final destination, it would be wise to buy tires and chains - says Filip Fischer, Head of Customer Service in Oponeo.pl.
In other European countries the situation is very diverse.
In the Czech Republic snow chains and winter tires change are mandatory only in some mountain areas -there is a special mandatory sign with the car and the snowflake, (cold výbava).
In Slovakia, the use of winter tires is compulsory from November 15th to March 15th , when the roads are covered with snow, slush and sleet. Chains may only be used when the road is covered with a layer of snow, which is sufficient enough to protect the road surface. In both countries, as well as in our ban on the use of studded tires. In both of the above-mentioned countries, as well as in Poland, the use of studded tires is forbidden.
In Germany there is a principle called ‘From O to E’, which basically means the obligation to use winter tires from October to Easter. If road conditions require the use of chains, it is permitted. In this case the maximum speed limit is 50km/h. Total ban on the use of studded tires. The one and only exception is the area located up to 15km from the Austrian border, where it is mandatory to have the winter tires and the snow chains on. The road signs remind drivers of the need for winter tires and snow chains. In this area it is possible to use studded tires, provided that we put the plate with an inscription ‘studded tires’ at the back of the car.
In Switzerland driving in winter tires is not mandatory, but recommended. The driver, who causes difficulties for others on the road due to his lack of adaptation to the weather conditions is punishable with a mandate. The signs inform drivers about the necessity of snow chains and winter tires. It is allowed to use studded tires, provided that such equipment is allowed in the country of vehicle’s registration.
In France, the winter tire obligation is regulated by road signs. It is allowed to put on snow chains and studded tires. In the first case, the maximum speed is 50 km / h. In the second, it requires special labeling of the vehicle.
In Italy winter tires are obligatory, and on some roads, you must also use snow chains. The regulations depend very much on the weather conditions. If the conditions allow, the use of the studded tires in Italy is permissible.
Driver full of energy
The car had a technical inspection and we made sure that we have full necessary equipment to drive the route, but it is still not enough. You have to remember that not only the car has to be prepared to drive. It is obvious, that the physical and psychological condition of a driver is just as important.
The driver should be rested, so he will not have any problems with concentration or moments of weakness, while driving. However, if this will take place, it is worth to take a short break to relax and recharge your batteries. Many times it is the efficiency of the driver, not all the technologies used in the car that allows us to reach the designated place safely.
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