Italy - Riding in the snow...

...or ice, could cost you up to $400 in fines:

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Google translation:

Motorcycles, fines up to 338 euros for those who travel with snow or ice

Even with winter tires, there is a ban on movement for mopeds and motorcycles in the presence of snow or ice on the road or in the event of snowfall in progress.

In these cold days few people choose the two wheels for travel but if you decide to use a motorcycle or scooter, it is better to know what is prescribed by the Highway Code and the ministerial directives regarding circulation during the winter period. In this regard, over the years have been superimposed different regulations and ministerial clarifications that prescribe the limits of circulation for mopeds and motorcycles in the presence of snow or ice on the road, or in case of snowfall in place, reiterating the provisions of the Ministerial Directive of January 16, 2013 on road traffic in winter and in case of snow emergency. This directive, when prescribing the obligation of winter tires or chains on board during the period between November 15th and April 15th, exempts mopeds and motorcycles from having to respect the winter ordinances, imposing the two-wheeler ban on the circulation in the presence of snow or ice on the ground or in the event of snowfall in progress.

During the period of validity the two-wheel mopeds and motorcycles, can circulate only in the absence of snow or ice on the road and snowy phenomena in progress (MIT Directive, Prot. RU \ 1580 -16.01.2013)


The Highway Code, in concert, in regulating the circulation outside the built-up areas (article 6) as well as in population centers (article 7), prescribes the rules for the adoption of the traffic suspension measures, generally establishing the administrative sanctions in which incurs those who do not comply with the suspension or prohibition measures.

Anyone who does not comply with the suspension or prohibition measures is subject to the administrative sanction of the payment of a sum from € 85 to € 338 (Article 6 paragraph 14 and article 7 paragraph 13 Cds).

So be careful not to be misled by the most recent circular of the Ministry of Transport n. 12424-DIV3-C of 27 May 2016 which, similarly to what is prescribed for passenger cars, reiterates that even motorcycles and mopeds can fit, without any obligation, tires of the "M + S" type with a speed code lower than that reported on the circulation certificate (provided that it is not less than 130 km / h) without the need to update the vehicle registration document. Regardless of the type of tire fitted, the prohibition of movement for mopeds and motorcycles in the presence of snow or ice on the road or during snowfalls remains in place.

On a similar note:
In this case the government telling people what kind of vehicle they can drive or when.

Someone on TV was blaming the government for people that died in the California fire because they didn't evacuate..   In our Country people have the right to do a lot of stupid things that could get them killed.  When Mt St, Helen was getting ready to blow, people were told to leave, many didn't and they were never seen again.  People ride out hurricanes in mandatory evacuation areas and some are never seen again.   The same with fires, they can't make you leave your home.  I guess as we become more socialistic this will change, but for now (for better or worse) we're the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave (OK possibly stupid).   We can even ride our motorcycles in the snow  
(Naturally IMHO)

We even let people ride motorcycles w/o helmets in many states...

Stupid is as stupid does and I suppose lawmakers will continue to impose regulations against it, the argument being if you won't listen to reason you deserve to be fined. My wife calls it the 'stupid tax'.

I enjoy riding without a helmet BUT at this stage of the game I'm not willing to accept the risk, but it's my decision (in most States).

Ultimately just riding a motorcycle could be considered as stupid by most people.  After all the fatality rate for motorcycles is 35 greater than automobiles, per mile driven (per HNTSA).  That's pretty crappy odds if you consider just the risk.
Point was, we're lucky we live in a Country where we're allowed to make the decision to take a risk. As the Country becomes more socialistic (like some European Countries) the opportunity to take risks will be restrained by law or by being taxed so high the average person can't afford it.

Well, isn't this a fine gloomy Saturday discussion? Let's see...

I ride motorcycles, own firearms, drink wine / beer / spirits and want another 60's vintage pre-smog sports car so yeah, I do appreciate and enjoy my freedoms (and those that work/fight to protect them). Also do what I can to help ensure my children and grand children are allowed to enjoy them as much as I do.

Time for a bourbon and a nap.

Not so gloomy. Sometimes it's good to say out loud what makes this Country so much better than so many others, especially today when so many people start their comment with 'Well in Europe'.
Off to my next kid Hockey game.

Well said Harry. Hope you enjoy(ed) the hockey game.

egschade wrote:Well said Harry. Hope you enjoy(ed) the hockey game.

Actually I had the option of six hockey games. I'll make four this weekend.  I have three grand kids playing, and two sons coaching.  If I get bored with hockey there are always the soccer games.  I can't wait for girls indoor softball to start

Indoor softball?