top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Lazy drivers face €450 fine for snow

Gendarmes warn motorists of dangers of driving with heap of snow or ice on car roof

DRIVERS in the Alps have been warned by the police to make sure they clear their cars of snow – or face a €450 fine.

The warning from the Gendarmerie des Alpes-de-Haute-Provence comes as heavy snows blanket the region and holidaymakers take to the roads heading home from the ski resorts.

Some cars have been spotted with masses of snow piled on their roofs and the gendarmes say the drivers face a charge of “chargement mal arrimé” [carrying an insecure load] as the snow will block the driver’s vision when he brakes.

The snow or sheet of ice could also fall on the road at any time and cause other problems or even be blown back on to a driver following behind.

Simply clearing the windscreen is not enough and the gendarmes warn that drivers are responsible for having a safe vehicle and should clear snow or ice off the roof.

Drivers should use winter tyres in the high mountains – although there is no law obliging them to do so – and they are only compelled to use snow chains on roads that carry chaînes à neige obligatoires panels. The chains should be fitted to at least two driven wheels.

Route de Bourg. 4 pneus neige. Si vous n avez pas de pneus hiver, chaînes obligatoires. pic.twitter.com/nWtEvgzqoU— Radio Val d'Isère (@radiovaldisere) February 27, 2015

Photo: © Gendarmerie des Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France