| Snow chains, how to fit and tips on driving in snow and ice |
Snow chains are compulsory for vehicles in winter on most Alpine roads, including 4 x 4 vehicles. Police may stop you and deny you further access if you do not carry suitable snow chains.
All our snow chains comply with European legislations, and so will enable you to complete your journey and not end up stranded a few miles away from your destination. (our travel kit, spare bulbs/headlamp deflectors etc, will also be required) |
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| Chain Fitting |
Fit chains at bays where you see the "Fit Chains Here" sign. Always fit chains to driving wheels only. When required, four wheel drive vehicles should fit chains to front wheels.
Chain fitting bays are level and make fitting easier. If you don''t use the chain fitting bay you may find yourself in a lot of trouble.
Chains are harder to fit on slopes, and you will obstruct other vehicles and snow clearing equipment. You can be fined for not carrying and fitting chains as directed. If it has not been necessary to fit chains when traveling to the resort, it is advisable to fit them upon arrival in preparation for the return trip. It is quite difficult to fit them to cars covered by snow. |
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| Snow Driving - The Basics |
| It is better to control your car by steering rather than braking. Hitting the bank or being stuck in a snow drift is better than going over the edge! If you go into a skid, turn the front wheels in the direction of the skid and release your brake. After the skid ceases, gently apply your brakes. |
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Observe local speed limits in resorts, chain fitting bays and elsewhere. Before leaving the ski resort be sure to clear any snow from the car roof, to avoid creating a road hazard to other vehicles. |
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Drive cautiously with gradual pressure on the accelerator to avoid wheel spin. |
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Avoid unnecessary gear changes. Engage first or second gear on level ground (including automatics) before ascending or descending hills in snow or ice conditions. |
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Brake gently. Front and rear wheels can lock easily with loss of steering and control. |
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Keep well behind the vehicles in front. |
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Avoid braking when cornering. |
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Do not drive faster than 40kph. |
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Remember that when meeting oncoming vehicles, common sense dictates that the vehicle going up has right of way. It is much harder for an ascending vehicle to start again if it has to stop.
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