Winter driving and tire rules: what you can and cannot rely on in Russia
As temperatures drop and road conditions shift, drivers often ask about using summer tires through the cold season and whether fines apply. The same concern surfaces in the heat of summer when people wonder about winter tires. The practical question remains, what is permitted and what could become a problem for motorists on the road?
Here comes some reassuring news: there is no penalty for using tires outside the typical season in Russia. While discussions about restricting off season tire use pop up from time to time, the reality on the ground has not changed. The regulatory framework does not impose a fine specifically for carrying an off season set of tires or for tire usage beyond the traditional seasonal timetable.
Fines in this area would typically relate to malfunctions in the vehicle itself, as outlined in Article 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation. Off season tires are not listed among the list of faults that trigger penalties. Compliance guidance for vehicle operation focuses on the overall condition of the car and its systems, not on the calendar for tire swapping alone.
In the official lists that define malfunctions and the conditions under which driving a vehicle is prohibited, there is no explicit reference to seasonal tire use. The documentation highlights tread depth, visible external damage, tire size, proper mounting, and other mechanical factors. Yet it does not single out tires as a seasonal constraint. This is important because it means that, from a formal standpoint, you are not committing a listed offense merely by using tires that are not tailored to the current season.
There is, however, a strong word of caution. The practical reality is weightier than any written rule. Driving on summer tires in winter increases the likelihood of a crash because the tires may not provide adequate grip on icy or snowy surfaces. The risk climbs substantially, and the consequences can be severe, including serious injuries or worse. In everyday terms, common sense remains your best guide when choosing tires for winter road conditions. If the goal is safety, many drivers opt for winter tires or all weather tires when winter weather is a persistent factor, recognizing that grip, braking distance, and handling are materially affected by tire choice in cold weather.
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