Winter tire safety: A Moldovan concern
Despite the onset of winter weather in many parts of Moldova, many drivers are delaying the mandatory switch to winter tires.
Law enforcement officials are urging drivers to comply with the legal requirement and avoid waiting until roads are covered in snow or ice, as this could result in fines.
In Soroca, several drivers were seen queuing at tire shops to make the necessary switch. Some drivers explained that they were only changing their tires now in anticipation of heavier snowfall.
“I’m changing my tires because the weather’s changing, snow is expected, and we have to prepare for winter,” one driver said.
Another driver commented, “There’s not much of a queue now. The rush to change tires is over. We’re here to change our tires because winter’s coming, it’s getting colder, and we need to be safe on the road.”
“It’s definitely dangerous. I think having winter tires is crucial for safe driving,” another driver emphasized.
Prices for winter tires have increased by about 15% this year, with some drivers facing an additional 1,200 lei (~60 euro) for a new set of four tires. Additionally, car service costs have risen. Changing from summer to winter tires can now cost 60 lei (~3 euro) more in some capital city workshops compared to 2023.
Failure to comply with the legal requirement to switch to winter tires can result in fines of up to 1,500 lei (~70 euro).
Translation by Iurie Tataru
