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Winter tyre obligation from 1 November: what it means for your car insurance

Author: Agnieszka Valenta · 22 October 2026

Winter tyres are required again from 1 November

From 1 November, the situational winter tyre obligation applies again in Austria. Anyone driving on summer tyres in snow risks not only a fine but, in the event of a claim, also problems with the insurer.

What applies?

Period: from 1 November to 15 April.
“Situational” means: the obligation applies in wintry road conditions – snow, slush or ice.
Minimum tread depth: 4 mm throughout the winter. The ÖAMTC recommends around 6 mm when changing tyres.
Fine: from around €100; if other road users are endangered, theoretically up to €10,000.

What does this mean for your insurance?

Motor liability: damage caused to others is covered by motor liability insurance even if you were driving on summer tyres – injured parties are protected.
Comprehensive cover (Kasko): for damage to your own car, the insurer may regard driving on summer tyres in snow as gross negligence. Payment is decided on a case-by-case basis.

A tip from your broker Some comprehensive cover tariffs include a clause in which the insurer waives the defence of gross negligence. We will gladly check free of charge whether your policy contains it – and explain everything in English.

Checklist for changing tyres

Check the tread depth – at least 4 mm, better 6 mm
Check the age of the tyres – the DOT number is on the side of the tyre
Check the tyre pressure after the change
Ice scraper, gloves and high-visibility vest in the car
Briefly check your comprehensive cover terms

Sources (in German): ÖAMTC (22.10.2025); SALZBURG24 (01.11.2025); WKO Oberösterreich (20.04.2017).

About the author

Agnieszka Valenta
Versicherungsmaklerin und Beraterin in Versicherungsangelegenheiten (independent insurance broker) in Breitenwaida, in the insurance industry since 2008. Advice in English, German, Polish, Serbian and Bosnian. More about me

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