Big Variation In 'Winterisation' Charges Where Chains Compulsory
Big Variation In 'Winterisation' Charges Where Chains Compulsory
Published : 03-Feb-2016 11:05
The average costs for 'winterisation' of rental cars varies considerably depending on where you fly in to, according to a new study by iCarhireinsurance.com which provides car hire excess insurance.
Winter tyres and/or carrying/using snow chains are often compulsory in snowy conditions, or in some cases just in winter, in many European nations but car rental companies tend to see them as an 'add on extra' cost.
iCarhireinsurance.com compared the winterisation charges in six ski destinations (Geneva, Grenoble, Turin, Innsbruck, Sophia and Barcelona) levied by five car hire companies (Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar and Sixt) for a week's hire of a medium-sized car from 13 - 20 February 2016.
The survey found that the highest charge was in Grenoble with Budget charging a £119 winterisation cost while the lowest cost was £15, if hiring from Sixt in Sofia. On average drivers are paying around £37 for winterisation costs.
"The regulations on winter tyres and snow chains vary between countries, but car hirers do need to be up to speed on whether they need them in the country they're hiring in, otherwise they could face a 5,000 Euro fine in Austria, for instance," said Ernesto Suarez, CEO and founder of iCarhireinsurance.com.
AVERAGE WINTERISATION COST IN EACH DESTINATION
Barcelona £46.32
Geneva £64.14
Grenoble £52.73
Innsbruck £20.76
Sofia £19.85
Turin £20.07
Average Cost £37.31
Winter tyres are not compulsory in Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Bulgaria, however, if local signs indicate that snow chains should be carried in the vehicle, you are required to do so and if an accident were to occur a motorist without winter tyres would have a far greater chance of receiving the responsibility of any damage incurred from the collision.
"Winterisation charges are another example of how car hire companies snowball costs at the rental desk, and can make an original low rental price not such a good deal after all," said Ernesto Suarez, CEO and founder of iCarhireinsurance.com. "With these winter destinations, however, do make sure you've done your research and know the necessary equipment required for the country you're in."
EU laws regarding winter tyres and snow chain requirements are as follows:
• Germany - Must have winter or all season tyres (M+S*) fitted during winter seasons.
• Austria - Must have winter tyres (M+S*) fitted on snow covered roads from 1st Nov - 15th Apr.
• France - Carry snow chains and use as directed by local signs.
• Switzerland - Carry snow chains and use as directed by local signs. Winter tyres are recommended but not compulsory.
• Andorra - Carry snow chains and use as directed by local signs.
• Italy - Carry snow chains and use as directed by local road signs. Winter tyres are recommended but not compulsory.
iCarhireinsurance has produced a winter driving infographic on the subject:
https://www.icarhireinsurance.com/information-and-news/blog/infographic-winter-driving-top-tips
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