Do I need to fit winter tyres?
There are no rules or regulations with any German insurance company that can force an insured to fit winter tyres! In the event of an incident your insurer will never refuse to settle your claim due to not fixing the appropriate rubber. However the German legislator has decreed that starting 1st May 2006 vehicles have to be equipped with suitable tyres depending on the meteorological conditions. This simply means that in the event of snow and/ or ice, so called winter- or all-season tyres have to be fitted. Theses can be identified by the M+S or snowflake symbol- stamped on on the side of every tyre. Because the new rule does not specifically dictate winter tyres, motorists in areas without regular onsets of winter can travel using other kinds or rubber, but with sufficient tread of course. However, should it surprisingly snow and/or be icy the motorists will have to abandon their vehicles if they do not want to take the risk of being penalized! Anyone who decides to continue their jou
