As Europe revamps winter tire rules, Slovakia keeps its status quo
While Europe pushes for stricter standards, drivers in Slovakia can breathe a sigh of relief—at least for now—as old rules still apply.
As drivers prepare for the chill of winter, new European regulations have taken effect this October, imposing stricter standards on winter tires that focus on their composition and performance testing.
The new rules elevate the standards beyond the traditional M+S marking, which stands for mud and snow. Previously, this designation merely indicated that a tire offered improved traction compared to summer or all-season variants. However, consumers should be cautious: not all M+S tires are suitable for slippery conditions. The marketing of all-weather tires often blurs the lines, as some may lack the necessary symbols to be deemed appropriate for winter driving, writes SME.
In 2018, a new classification known as the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) was adopted. It is indicated by a distinct emblem featuring three peaks and a snowflake. Tires bearing this symbol meet the European standard ECE 117.02, which focuses on optimal traction and performance on snow-covered or icy roads.
While several European countries are adopting the 3PMSF symbol as a benchmark from October, Slovakia remains lenient. According to the Road Traffic Act, both M+S and 3PMSF tires are still classified as winter tires, meaning no immediate changes are required for drivers in Slovakia.
Earlier misleading information suggested that from October 1, only tires marked with a mountain symbol would be permitted in Slovakia.
It is crucial for drivers to be aware that regulations vary beyond Slovakia’s borders. For instance, in Germany, while winter tires are not mandatory, those using M+S tires can face fines of €60 if stopped by police during wintry conditions. In Austria, the requirement for 3PMSF tires is strict from November 1 to April 15 if snow or ice is present on the roads. The Czech Republic mandates winter tires from November 1 to March 31, but again, this is contingent on road conditions.
Winter tires are mandatory on Slovak roads from November 15 to March 31 if there is a continuous layer of snow, ice, or frost on the roadway. Failure to meet the requirement of having winter tires may result in a fine of €50, and up to €100 in administrative proceedings.
Drivers are advised to switch to winter tires when temperatures drop below 7°C, with a minimum tread depth of four millimetres and an expected lifespan of around five years.
For those who have purchased winter tires over the past six years, the 3PMSF symbol should already be visible, marking a shift in standards aimed at enhancing road safety during the winter months.
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