Snow chains - always play it safe
Snow chains for motorhomes and caravans are simply a must when travelling to ski resorts. This protects you from unpleasant surprises. There is no general obligation to wear snow chains for caravans and motorhomes in Europe. In wintry road conditions, however, each country has different signage in place to indicate the use of roads. The amount of fines for offences also varies enormously. Anyone planning a trip should therefore find out exactly what the regulations are in their holiday destination before setting off. In general, snow chains may only be used on snow-covered roads.
The ADAC has compiled the most important information on the Alpine countries:
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Snow chains in Austria:
In Austria, snow chains must always be fitted where this is indicated on a round sign with a blue background and snow chain symbol. They must be fitted to all wheels on the driven axles. For all-wheel drive vehicles, chains must be fitted to at least two drive wheels. Depending on the severity of the offence, drivers who violate the signage can expect a fine of up to Euro 5,000.
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Snow chains in Switzerland:
If a route in Switzerland is signposted with the road sign "Snow chains compulsory", drivers may only drive on it with chains. Exceptions may apply to four-wheel drive vehicles, for example by means of an additional sign "4×4 excluded". Violations will be penalised with a fine.
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Snow chains in Italy:
In Italy, snow chains can be made compulsory by means of special signage if necessary. The maximum speed limit is then 50 km/h. Here too, offences are punishable by fines. So be sure to take snow chains for your motorhome and caravan if you are travelling through Italy.
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Snow chains in France:
The use of snow chains can also be ordered at short notice in France by means of appropriate signs. The maximum permitted speed in France is then also 50 km/h. Chains must be fitted to the wheels of the drive axle. Offenders will be fined and prohibited from continuing their journey.
Conclusion:
With two snow chains for the drive tyres on your motorhome, you are already well protected. This also applies to trailers: Well-profiled winter tyres for the towing vehicle, at least M+S all-season tyres on the caravan and two snow chains for the drive wheels and winter slopes should generally be manageable.
At ADAC traffic regulations snow chains you will find everything you need to know about snow chains and tips on how to put them on correctly.
Contributions from the trade journals:
https://www.promobil.de/tipp/ratgeber-schneeketten-bei-promobil-de/
https://www.caravaning.de/zubehoer/wintercamping-schneeketten-wohnwagen-gespann/