{"id":1974,"date":"2024-07-24T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-07-24T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ralarsa.com\/es-obligatorio-llevar-cadenas-coche\/"},"modified":"2025-09-16T14:49:00","modified_gmt":"2025-09-16T13:49:00","slug":"es-obligatorio-llevar-cadenas-coche","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ralarsa.com\/en\/is-it-mandatory-to-carry-chains-car\/","title":{"rendered":"Is it mandatory to carry chains in the car?"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/p>\n

Heavy snowfall during the coldest months of the year can reduce road safety. Snow and ice create a layer on the asphalt that eliminates tyre grip, making the road slippery and dangerous for vehicles. To increase traction, car snow chains are presented as the solution for driving at low temperatures, even on snowy and\/or icy roads. But is their use mandatory?<\/p>\n

In this article, as an automotive glass workshop specialising in glass repairs, we explain when it is mandatory to carry chains in your car and how to use them \u2014 essential knowledge for safe driving in adverse weather conditions. At Ralarsa, we offer workshop services for all types of conditions. Visit our website to learn more!<\/p>\n

Under what conditions is it mandatory to put snow chains on your car?<\/h2>\n

Although they are part of the car safety kit<\/strong><\/a>, it is not mandatory to always carry chains permanently. However, there are situations where their use is required, depending on the road conditions. These situations are usually indicated by a road sign or traffic officer.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s advisable to check the condition of the roads in advance if your journey will pass through areas affected by snow and low temperatures. This will help you know if carrying chains is mandatory, making travel easier.<\/p>\n

Another way to anticipate the use of chains is by knowing the forecasted weather conditions for your route. If it has snowed or is snowing, it\u2019s most likely that chains will be mandatory. It\u2019s also useful to know if salt has been spread on the roads. Salt slows water from freezing, preventing slippery surfaces and, in some cases, avoiding the need to install chains.<\/p>\n

On which wheels should you place the chains?<\/h2>\n

Chains should be fitted on at least two of the four wheels. The choice depends on the location of the driving wheels. For front\u2011wheel\u2011drive vehicles, chains should be installed on the two front wheels. For rear\u2011wheel\u2011drive vehicles, they should be installed on the two back wheels.<\/p>\n

When installing chains, stop in a safe area as soon as you see the first signs of snow on the road. We recommend wearing gloves to protect your hands from the cold and to give you the grip needed to place the chains in adverse conditions.<\/p>\n

Types of snow chains<\/h2>\n

When looking for snow chains for your car, you\u2019ll find a wide variety of options. All types improve traction on snowy or icy roads, but some may perform better than others. Here are the main types:<\/p>\n