There is no end to the number of cars stuck on snowy roads with normal tires.
From December 2022 to January 2023, accidents such as cars stuck or slipping due to snow or frozen roads have been reported in various places.
In particular, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism called for the installation of winter tires, the carrying of chains, and the early installation of winter tires, as many cars were stuck driving on snowy and frozen roads with normal tires.
There was also a national highway administrator who took a picture of a car with normal tires stuck on a snowy road and posted an arrow with a photo on social media. There are many complaints against drivers who try to drive on snow / frozen roads with normal tires.
However, despite these warnings and warnings, there seems to be no end to traffic problems caused by cars that are unable to drive on snowy roads with normal tires.
There is also a post saying “Do you have to wear studless even with four-wheel drive?”
It is illegal to drive on snowy/icy roads with normal tires.
Driving on snowy roads with normal tires without studless tires or tire chains is almost always a violation of the law.
According to Article 71 of the Road Traffic Act, “Matters to be Observed by Drivers,” paragraph 6, drivers of vehicles, etc., are required to comply with the following: “Depending on road or traffic conditions, the Public Safety Commission may The Public Safety Commissions of each prefecture, except for Okinawa Prefecture, stipulated that “cars should not use tire chains or anti-slip roads on snowy or icy roads.” The rule is that “Anti-slip measures must be taken by installing tires, etc.”
As a result, driving on snowy or icy roads without anti-slip measures falls under “public safety commission violations”.
There are no demerit points, but you must pay a fine of 7,000 yen for large vehicles, 6,000 yen for standard-sized vehicles and motorcycles, and 5,000 yen for mopeds. If you fail to pay the penalty and are found guilty, you will be sentenced to imprisonment for up to 3 months or a fine of up to 50,000 yen.