Do You Need Winter Tyres in France?

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 by Chesca D
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Planning to drive in France this winter? Learn where winter tyres are required, what the 2021 French regulations mean for drivers, and how to prepare your vehicle for safe travel in snowy or mountainous regions. Our quick guide explains everything you need to know before you hit the road.

If you are used to driving on UK roads, then you may not be aware of winter tyres or the benefits to driving on them.

Winter tyres are a seasonal tyre with better grip and traction on slippery or wet road surfaces. They are designed to optimise safety in more challenging conditions and are made using a different type of rubber which is more flexible in even the coldest of conditions. 

However, the lack of extreme weather conditions in the UK means that winter tyres are not a necessity. While some in hilly and particularly remote regions will sometimes choose winter tyres to give themselves better grip on hills and on icy roads, typically an all-season tyre will be adequate for UK driving.

So, what about other countries?

In this article, we’re focusing on the rollout of winter tyres in France, following new rules and regulations in 2021.

What Are Winter Tyres?

Winter tyres have a few notable differences compared to standard all-season or summer tyres:

  • They have a deeper tread depth to create more traction with the road surface
  • They are made from a more pliable rubber that is less likely to freeze in the colder weather and therefore less likely to be damaged by wear and tear
  • Wider grooves help to offset water on the road surface 

These kinds of tyres are indicated by a unique winter marking on the sidewall of the tyre, usually a snowflake icon or the letters M+S which tells you that the tyres are suitable for mountains and snow driving. 

What Are the Rules in France for Winter Tyres?

In 2021 it was announced that any vehicle driving in France’s mountainous region would require winter tyres and/or snow chains during the coldest season from November through to the end of March.

The aim of this regulation and the introduction of mandatory winter tyres for cars, vans, motorhomes, trucks, and other vehicles, is to keep traffic moving and minimise the risk of accidents caused by adverse driving conditions.

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Where in France Do You Need Winter Tyres?

The mountainous regions of France include 34 different French departments – including areas in the Alps, the Massif Central, and the Pyrenees. These are areas that see significant changes in weather conditions and in the road surface and are often subject to long delays and regular accidents as a result. 

Upon entry to these zones, drivers will notice signs that indicate they need to have the appropriate tyres for the road surface. Anyone found to be driving without snow chains or winter tyres on their vehicle will be fined 135 euros and will have their vehicle immobilised until they have corrected the issue.

Preparing for Winter Driving

Whether you’re planning a road trip to France in your own car or motorhome, or simply want to find out more about winter tyres and their benefits in particularly remote parts of England and the UK, the team at Tyres.co.uk can offer advice and guidance on finding the best options for your car.

From leading brands to affordable upgrades, let us arm you with the right tyres for winter driving – wherever you’re planning your next adventure.

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