In both Germany and Sweden, a ban on the now discontinued "M+S" winter tires has been introduced. Even so, it falls behind quite a few Danes, says the tire manufacturer.
New tire regulations in Germany and Sweden are behind scores of Danish drivers. Many are not aware that there are now stricter requirements for the tire marking when driving in winter conditions in these countries.
"Fortunately, many people are aware of the requirement for winter tires in Germany, but the new German tire regulations fall behind most people.
– The Germans now demand that there must be snowflake-marked all-season or winter tires on the car when driving in winter. Winter lining is defined as snow, sleet, slush or ice, says Christian Jensen, technician at Bridgestone.
It is therefore not enough that the tires are marked with M+S (Mud + Snow), which is otherwise applicable in Denmark.
In Germany and Sweden, the tire must be marked with the snowflake symbol to be legal for winter use. Violation of the rules can result in a fine for both the driver and the owner of the car.
In addition to the new tire regulations, it is important to pay attention to the trailer's tires, especially when driving with heavy loads.
– A trailer tire often takes a long time before it wears down – so be aware and check the tires at regular intervals so that you don't suddenly end up on the motorway with a full trailer and a cracked trailer tyre," warns Christian Jensen.
Remember to check the trailer's total weight and load capacity, and make sure the tire pressure is correct when you are driving with a heavy load.
– Remember that the tire pressure should be higher than normal when you are driving with a heavy load. Also check that the trailer connects correctly to the car and that the lights and turn signals work as they should before you head out on the roads, advises Christian Jensen.
The monster depth of trailer tires is also important for safety. "Worn tires increase braking distance and make your roadway unstable.
The heavier the trailer is loaded, the longer the braking distance of the car and trailer. Just like on cars, the legal tread depth is 1.6mm, but Bridgestone recommends a tread depth of at least 3mm."
Finally, it is important to remember a German parking disc when parking in Germany. Danish parking plates are not valid.
– Danish parking discs and parking clocks are not recognized in Germany, and must not be visible in the car at the same time as using the German parking disc. A German parking disc can be bought at German petrol stations or in Danish shops with car equipment, says Christian Jensen.
At home, the government will not agree to a ban on certain tire types. And so anyway. This week, the government proposed to ban summer tires in winter. Something that will be extremely expensive for the Danes. Read more about it here .
