Since the end of 2021, motorists have been required to respect the directives established by the Mountain II law in different departments. These restrictions, applied only during winter, should be followed in particular in the Ain department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Here are the essential points to remember for riding safely.
OBLIGATIONS FOR MOTORISTS
The Mountain II law is a system of road protection implemented in France from November 1, 2021. In certain departments, this new legislation requires driving with snow tires, snow chains or snow socks on snowy and icy roads. This obligation is planned for the entire winter period, i.e. between November 1 and March 31.
The Ain department is affected by this obligation. The measure must be respected by all users using 4-wheel vehicles. Special equipment, approved and recognized by law, must be provided without fail for drivers of light and utility vehicles, motorhomes, heavy goods vehicles and coaches.
The Mountain law in Ain is now subject to strict application. In 2021-2022, motorists checked at fault most often received a reminder of the law instead of a fine.
RESPECT THE MONTAGNE II LAW IN AIN
Ain is one of the French departments in which the Mountain II law applies during the winter. Since November 1, 2021, road users have been required to equip themselves accordingly to comply with the law. On each vehicle, snow chains , snow socks , Winter tires or some snow tires are essential for riding during the winter period which runs from November 1 to March 31.
In total, the territory of 158 municipalities in the department is affected by this regulation. To make it easier for you to find your way, all areas in which this equipment is mandatory are indicated using specific signage. Zone entry signs (framed in red) and zone exit signs (framed in black and crossed out) can thus be seen on the side of the road in the Ain department.
This measure aims to guarantee the safety of users in the department, but also to reduce the number of road accidents and blocked lanes due to snow and ice. By respecting the regulations, you help make the roads safer for everyone.
RISKS IN THE EVENT OF BREACH OF THE LAW
For the winter period 2022-2023, the Mountain II law is subject to concrete application throughout France. The police are required to enforce the new legislation directly, without educating users as was the case during the 2021-2022 winter season. For this reason, it is essential to be proactive for motorists who will be driving in the Ain department.
Each car must now be equipped with chains, snow socks, suitable over-tyres or specific tires allowing it to drive safely on snowy or icy asphalt. A motorist checked without adequate equipment between November 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023 risks a fourth class fine. Its amount is 135 euros.
Law enforcement may also consider that a vehicle without equipment is a danger to other users. In this case, the vehicle may be immobilized. If you drive on roads close to areas covered by the Mountain II law, the police will also be able to check that you have the required equipment in your trunk.
THE SOLUTION OF MUSHER APPROVED OVERTYRES
If snow tires are compulsory in Ain, motorists must bear in mind that there are cheaper and more practical alternatives to comply with the new regulations. Indeed, the Mountain II law authorizes approved equipment such as Musher overtires. Designed using exclusive seamless technology, these anti-slip snow socks use 3D shape memory knitting which gives them perfect grip and significant resistance.
These overtires are compatible with all vehicles, even those that cannot be chained, for rapid installation in just 5 minutes. They will allow you to save considerable time compared to installing snow chains or classic snow socks. Unlike snow tires, you will not need to go to a garage to install them.
THE Musher overtires are extremely effective on snow and ice. Thanks to their technology patented by the INPI, this equipment also allows you to drive on asphalt for a maximum distance of 150 km at an average speed of 50 km/h. Made in France, these overtires will be of real service to you on a daily basis if you have to travel in Ain.
Discover the regulations in force in the neighboring department: Jura .