Road users will have to install regulatory devices on their cars from November 1. Important clarification: a precise standard has recently been required…
When you become the owner of a car, you don’t always think about the obligations that come with it. In addition to insurance and regular maintenance, you must have certain mandatory equipment such as a safety vest or warning triangle. But there is one accessory that many motorists forget, even though it is essential for safety. It is even an obligation that comes up every year: the regulations are in fact imposed annually throughout the winter period, from November 1 to March 31, in certain areas.
This provision also concerns many French people, because it extends to several localities distributed in 34 departments located in high altitude zones: the Alps, Corsica, the Massif Central, the Jura massif, the Pyrenees and the Vosges massif. From the fall therefore, “all four-wheeled automobiles (private vehicles, vans, public transport and trucks) circulating in these territories must have tires suitable for winter or have anti-slip devices”indicates the platform dedicated to road safety.
And since November 1, 2024, an important new change has changed the rules: only tires bearing the “3PMSF” certification (Three Peak Mountain Snow Flake) are now accepted as an alternative to chains. These tires are distinguished by the “mountain symbol”, representing three peaks accompanied by a snow crystal. Other “snow tires” can still be purchased and used, but drivers must have additional chains to drive during the winter period in areas subject to this measure.
Concerning temporary adhesion systems, these may be metal chains (recommended for regular use) or non-slip textile covers (suitable for occasional use). These accessories must be kept in the passenger compartment of the vehicle, for example in the rear storage space, in order to be available when passing through a lane affected by this new legislation. It should be noted that a minimum of two chains (or covers) are required to fit the wheels that drive the vehicle.
Road safety told us that“currently, a certain leniency prevails” in the face of non-compliance with these provisions. The organization emphasizes on its platform that “automobiles equipped with tires with metal spikes escape these equipment constraints.” This directive aims to reduce the dangers of accidents on snow-covered or frozen roads, while avoiding situations of paralysis in mountainous areas caused by unequipped vehicles blocking traffic. If you plan to travel in one of these departments this winter, you now know the rule!
