Drivers face new fines for winter tires: what will change

With the beginning of October, Ukrainian drivers are advised to prepare their cars for the winter season. One of the important aspects of safety is the timely replacement of summer tires with winter ones.

The main reason for this is to maintain vehicle control. Summer tires lose their characteristics at low temperatures, which can lead to deterioration of road grip and increased braking distance on ice or wet surfaces. The optimal time for replacement is considered to be when the average daily temperature drops below +6–7°C, usually around mid-October.

What the law says

Legislation does not establish specific dates for switching to winter tires. However, according to the Traffic Rules, tires must correspond to the road and weather conditions. Drivers who do not comply with these requirements may be held accountable under Article 121 of the Code of Administrative Offenses.

The fine for the first violation reaches 340 hryvnias. In the case of a repeated offense, not only financial penalties may apply, but also the deprivation of the right to drive for 3–6 months.

Possible changes

Currently, a draft law No. 43734 is being considered in the Verkhovna Rada, which proposes to strengthen the responsibility for using tires out of season. If the law is adopted, fines will significantly increase: from 1700 hryvnias for the first violation to 8500 hryvnias and deprivation of rights for half a year for repeat offenses.

Important not only for Ukraine

Drivers planning trips abroad should familiarize themselves with local regulations. In many European Union countries, winter tires are mandatory from December 1, and significant fines are imposed for violations.

Experts recommend that car owners not postpone the replacement of tires until the first frosts. 'The issue of seasonal tire replacement is primarily a matter of personal safety, not just the risk of being fined,' specialists emphasize.

Ukrainian drivers are advised to prepare their cars for the winter season, in particular, to timely replace summer tires with winter ones to ensure better vehicle control and road safety. The legislation does not establish specific dates for this, however, drivers who violate the tire requirements may face financial and other consequences. The current draft law provides for increased responsibility for using tires out of season, which may lead to significant fines and deprivation of the right to drive.