Polizei reminds drivers to be prepared for winter driving Published Jan. 14, 2009 By from German Polizei RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- As winter brings cold temperatures, snow and ice, local Polizei would like to offer a friendly reminder about items to consider when driving in these types of conditions. In order to prevent an accident during winter conditions, drivers should ensure they are properly prepared for winter driving. The following are a few issues for drivers to remember. 1) Road conditions. Motorists must recognize dangers when driving in fall and winter seasons and adapt driving habits as required. With the beginning of fall, motorists should consider slippery roads caused by rain and falling leaves as well decreased visibility due to fog and change their driving habits to accommodate. As winter hits, snow and ice further increase slippery conditions, increasing the danger and requiring slower speeds, more distance between vehicles and more patience. 2) Tires. Now is also the time motorists should consider putting on snow tires. When driving on snow and ice in Germany, vehicles must be equipped with snow tires or all-weather tires. These types of tires increase traction during slippery conditions, increasing control over your vehicle for safer driving conditions. Failure to comply with this recommendation could result in a fine. During typical wintry road conditions, Polizei charge a 20 Euro warning fee if you are caught driving with unsuitable tires. Motorists may also receive a fine of 20 Euros if they impact traffic or can't make it up a hill. If motorists block a road, the fine goes up to 40 Euros. In case of an accident due to wrong tires, auto insurances can refuse to pay for the damage sustained in an accident. 3) Windshield wipers and headlights. Drivers must also remember to add anti-freeze to their windshield wiper fluid, check wiper blades and clean headlights. Windshield washer fluid without anti-freeze will freeze, limiting the driver's ability to clean their windows and reducing visibility. Also, old wiper blades and dirty or snow covered headlights will also decrease visibility 4) Idle vehicles. Motorists must remember vehicles are not to be left idle or with the engines running unattended. This creates unnecessary noise pollution in the early morning, as well as increased air pollution. Motorists could be fined a minimum of 10 Euros for these actions. Remembering to prepare for winter driving in Germany can help keep drivers safe. It is better to be prepared for winter, than to repair a vehicle after an accident. For questions or concerns, feel free to contact the German Polizei Liaison Office on Ramstein Air Base at DSN 480-1985/87/88.