In Greece, snow chains are mandatory for all vehicles when relevant traffic restrictions are imposed due to adverse weather conditions. According to the relevant decision of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, cars of all categories are required to be equipped with anti-slip snow chains, or other similar anti-slip devices, such as snow socks for tires and snow tires (bearing the special marking of the “alpine” symbol with the M+S indication), during the period from October through April of each year.

Compliance with the above is mandatory only when and if the relevant decisions are issued by the competent authorities such as (Police Directorates, Traffic Police Directorates, General Secretariat for Civil Protection), in accordance with Article 52 of the Highway Code, which provides that prevailing weather conditions require drivers to ensure that the vehicles they drive are equipped with the appropriate anti-slip devices.

Following, when weather conditions do not require it and provided that no relevant decisions have been issued by the competent authorities mentioned above, drivers are not obliged to carry anti-skid devices in their vehicles. In addition, according to the Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure, drivers must be aware of the installation and operation of these devices in order to ensure their correct use.

Therefore, snow chains must be installed on all vehicles moving on roads where traffic restrictions have been imposed due to adverse weather conditions. Failure to use the necessary anti-skid devices in these cases incurs a fine of 80 euros.

In addition, apart from mandatory cases, snow chains can also be used on an optional basis to improve vehicle traction on snowy or icy roads. This can be particularly useful in areas where winter conditions are frequent, such as mountainous and semi-mountainous parts of Greece.

What should you pay attention to with snow chains?

The installation of snow chains should be done in a safe location and as conditions allow on a flat road. Additionally, you should take all necessary measures according to the Highway Code (e.g. warning triangle, distance) for your own safety as well as the safety of other drivers, so as not to create problems in the movement of other vehicles.

• Regularly check your snow chains for wear and tear.
• Store your snow chains in a cool and dry place.
• Do not use snow chains that are damaged or worn out.

What alternatives do you have besides snow chains? 

Snow chains or snow socks are the most effective method for improving your vehicle’s traction on snowy or icy roads. However, there is another alternative you can use in certain cases, such as winter tires.

Winter tires are tires designed to provide traction on snowy or icy roads. 

Additional tips

• If you are not sure how to install snow chains, ask for help from an experienced driver or take a look at this guide that will teach you How to Install Snow Socks on Your Car. 
• If you are driving on snowy or icy roads, it is important to be prepared for anything. Make sure you have emergency supplies with you, such as food, water, and a first aid kit.