Winter sports in the mountains? You need to know these unwritten rules of the road

For many, winter sports are the best vacation of the year. The car is a popular means of transport for a holiday in the snow. Before you ride the mountain passes of Austria, France or Switzerland, it is important to know these unwritten rules.

In this article we will only discuss the unwritten rules of the road. This way you can prevent dangerous situations. Always check the written traffic rules in a country before your vacation.

You should know these unwritten traffic rules before your winter sports holiday

Your path to winter sports naturally begins with a car that is in good condition. Some of the most important things you need to get are winter tires and snow chains. An electric car requires a little more preparation.

1. Descending traffic has priority

Your car is ready, now you are. The most important unwritten rule in the mountains concerns oncoming traffic. On a (narrow) mountain road, ascending traffic always has priority over descending traffic.

If you are driving in uphill traffic and it is easier for you to avoid the oncoming vehicle, then use the space.

2. Overtaking

Unwritten rules also apply when overtaking. Slower traffic turns using the right indicator if there is room to overtake.

Are you overtaking someone? Always give direction. Even among cyclists. Please note that cyclists may sway during the climb. So always drive around it with a wide berth.

3. In the mountains the bus has priority

Always give priority to large vehicles. Buses and trucks have a difficult time on narrow and steep mountain passes. So give them space!

4. Parking

The last important rule is that you are not allowed to park everywhere, although this rule is not entirely unwritten. Make sure you park neatly in a location where it is allowed and that you do not obstruct other traffic. This is how you prevent stress and annoyance while doing winter sports in the mountains!