ADAC tips for drivers in case of snow and risk of ice

The ADAC has tips on how drivers should behave during snowfall and the risk of icy conditions.

The ADAC has tips for drivers in case of snow and risk of icy conditions. (Photo: ADAC)
The ADAC has tips for drivers in case of snow and risk of icy conditions. (Photo: ADAC)

The ADAC recommends informing yourself in good time about the current weather and road conditions before starting your journey and avoiding unnecessary car trips in case of snowfall and risk of ice.

Aware in Traffic

Anyone who has to get into the car despite extreme weather conditions and cannot forgo the trip should generally plan for longer travel times and drive particularly carefully and predictively on wet, icy, or snowy roads.

This means: adjusting the speed to the weather conditions and maintaining a greater distance than the usually recommended "half speedometer." If you want to get a feel for the changed road conditions, you can conduct a short braking test if the traffic situation allows it safely.

Slow Pace Minimizes Slipping Risk

Even if there is an explicit speed limit on site, drivers should always drive only as fast in snowfall or on icy roads as they can still control their vehicle. Depending on the circumstances, this may be slower than legally allowed. If visibility is less than 50 meters in snowfall, no faster than 50 km/h should be driven.

The ADAC in NRW also recommends keeping an eye on the traffic flow in front and in the rearview mirror, as well as braking and steering gently. Abrupt maneuvers can cause the car to skid and slip.

If you suddenly start slipping despite adjusted driving, ADAC advises doing four things: take your foot off the accelerator, disengage the clutch, steer gently in the opposite direction, and brake. With a few kilometers per hour less, the car can often be better controlled again. If the vehicle no longer responds, only a full brake will help. The basic rule is: driving slowly can reduce the risk of slipping.

Strict Rules for Winter Tires

Before setting off, the car must be completely cleared of snow and ice. A small peephole in the windshield is not enough. The side mirrors, roof, license plate, as well as headlights and turn signals must also be free of snow/ice. This ensures other road users are not endangered by falling snow or ice chunks. If you do not clear your car roof, you will have to pay 25 euros, and covered headlights and turn signals cost ten euros. If the license plate is not visible, five euros will be charged.

In temperatures around the 0-degree mark, snow, or icy conditions, the situational winter tire requirement applies in Germany. Those still driving with summer tires in such conditions endanger themselves and others, and are also subject to a fine of at least 60 euros and a point in Flensburg. If an accident occurs, the comprehensive insurance can also significantly reduce its benefits due to gross negligence.

Since October 1, 2024, stricter rules apply to tires required in wintry road conditions: Only models with the Alpine symbol (mountain pictogram with snowflake) are permissible. Old tires that only have the M+S marking (mud and snow) are no longer allowed. All-season tires are legally considered winter tires if they bear the Alpine symbol.

According to ADAC, drivers should also check their winter equipment in the vehicle before driving and carry an ice scraper, hand brush, jump leads, windshield antifreeze, and a cover for the windshield. Especially on longer journeys, a wool blanket and a thermos of hot tea are also helpful.

Translated automatically from German.