WE 4 YOU
ASTM-SIAS Motorway Operators have undertaken to ensure a good level of grip and evenness of the motorway pavement through maintenance works and periodical survey campaigns monitored by the Independent Supervisory Authority (IVCA/ANAS). In the operational phase, Motorway Operators ensure smooth winter viability through salt spreading and removal of snow from the carriageway.
There are days when the mountainous nature of Italy tries to regain control over human projects and works.In such days, the Road Police and the Operator are forced to lean over backwards to manage all traffic issues. They collaborate with "Viabilità Italia", the national centre for viability coordination at the Ministry of Internal affaires, chaired by the Director of the Road Police Services.
In addition, the centre includes the presence of representatives from the Fire Brigades of the Emergency Service and Civil Defence Department, the Department of Public Security and Department of territorial and internal affairs, the Ministry of Infrastructures, the Ministry of Transports, the Civil Protection Department, Carabinieri, Anas, Associazione Italiana Società Concessionarie Autostrade e Trafori (Aiscat) and National Railways; last but not least, the activities of the centre are supported by IVCA and ANCI.
We invest our resources. We get organized and try to be ready to face winter-related issues.However, when it snows, no road is rough enough if you drive on it with unsuitable tyres.
One single vehicle stationing sideways in the snow is enough to make things difficult, when not impossible.In such conditions, arterial motorways get blocked by frost and many people are exposed to enormous hardships and personal risks.
When?
In winter months.
What?
Before driving on motorways, look for information on viability (some stretches must be driven through with winter tyres only). If you are a frequent driver, it is convenient to replace summer tyres with the most suitable winter types designed for snow and wet roadbed. Winter tyres are designed to endure chill and to be able to ensure the right grip on road surfaces covered with snow. If you are a casual driver, always carry tyre chains with you, ready for prompt use. They should be used on roads covered with snow only, otherwise you risk jeopardizing driving safety and damaging the roadbed.
Why?
When turning or braking on snow-covered roads, your car shows a lower grip. In addition to that, the snow packed on the roof might shift on the windshield while braking, thereby reducing your visibility. If possible, you'd better remove it before leaving, just as any ice crust on your windshield, either through an antifreeze or a suitable scraper.
However, it's crucial never to be caught by surprise by snow. You could be driving a heavy truck having problems and have to stop in the middle of the road, thereby blocking the whole route and creating risks for everybody and damage and discomfort for many.
Road Code
ART. 1 LEGGE 120 DEL 29 LUGLIO 2010 (RECANTE MODIFICHE AL CODICE DELLA STRADA)
ART. 6 (REGOLAMENTAZIONE DELLA CIRCOLAZIONE FUORI DEI CENTRI ABITATI)
ART. 140 (PRINCIPIO INFORMATORE DELLA CIRCOLAZIONE)