As winter approaches and holiday-makers begin to make their way to the state’s Alpine Regions, it is important to know the rules for driving in ‘snow and ice’ risk sections.
The RTA recommends the use of snow chains when driving in snowy conditions. They have also identified dangerous sections of road in Alpine Regions with yellow lane line markings and signposting.
National Park regulations state that all vehicles must carry chains if driving through a National Park’s designated ‘snow and ice’ risk sections.
Note that 4WDs are exempt from this regulation (’4WD’ includes SUVs and vehicles with all-wheel drive).
The current designated National Park ‘snow and ice’ risk sections are:
- Alpine Way - Thredbo to Tom Grogin
- Kosciuszko Road within the National Park boundary
- Guthega Road within the National Park boundary
If directed by signs or an authorised officer, chains must be fitted to the vehicle’s driving wheels. This should be done at chain fitting bays located along the route.
The RTA advises that it will carry out random chain inspections along these sections of road during the ski season. Fines of over $300 will be issued to drivers who fail to comply with National Park regulations.
Of course, snow chains must not be relied upon to guarantee safety when driving in snowy conditions. Sensible driving practices appropriate for the conditions must be used.
Visit Stay safe on the road this season for driving tips and information.
Have you had difficulty driving in the snow? Should snow chains be mandatory in snowy conditions?
Could you please tell us why woolworths caltex in young nsw is always around 10cents cheeper and why is that the price of oil goes lower but the fuel prices stay the same?why is it that ever since they brought in the fuel rebate sistem fuel from that time on has been around 20 to 30 cents dearer or was that just a way of giving the fuel companys more money?
To Richard james apps….Read the blog before commenting. This is about using snow chains, not fuel prices. Go somewhere else.
I find using snow chains a godsend and they should be made mandatory for ALL vehicles, not just 2WD vehicles…..
Richard is correct. Chains should be mandatory for all vehicles.
When fitted to the front wheels of AWD/4WD vehicles they improve steering response, enabling you to get out of the line of travel of another AWD/4WD or any other vehicle that may out of control, sliding toward you on ice.