topic 13.
Technology, transport & environmental protection.

Rule 1

Minimum tread depth 1.6 mm

Legal minimum for all tires: 1.6 mm remaining tread in the entire surrounding area. Recommendation: Change summer tires from 3 mm, winter tires from 4 mm. Violation: €60 + 1 point; The danger for the passenger/driver is higher.

Rule 2

Situational winter tire requirement

In wintry road conditions (snow, icy, frosty conditions) the use of M+S/snowflake symbol tires is mandatory. Rule of thumb: 'O to O' (October to Easter) winter tires - but only 'if necessary' by law.

Rule 3

Securing loads is the driver’s duty

Everything in the car must remain in place during an emergency stop. Unsecured loads can multiply by 50 at 50 km/h. Rule of thumb: secure everything over 1 kg in the interior (cargo net, parcel shelf, seat belt for large items).

Rule 4

Child seat required up to 12 years / 1.50 m

Children under 12 years OR under 1.50 m must ride in a child seat that is appropriate for their height and weight. Violation: €30-70 + 1 point. Also applies to trips to school, on vacation, or taking other people's children with you.

Rule 5

Environment: tire pressure, climate, maintenance

Tire pressure that is too low increases fuel consumption by up to 5%. Air conditioning costs 1-2 L/100 km. Regular maintenance (oil changes, air filters) keeps the engine clean. Avoid auxiliary heating, parking lights and idle gas.

Error 1

Only check tire pressure at TÜV

Check tire pressure monthly! Gas stations have free pressure testing devices. Values ​​are in the fuel filler flap or on the driver's side door frame.

Error 2

Leave winter tires in summer

Winter tires in summer have longer braking distances (up to 16 m longer at 100 km/h on wet asphalt) and wear out more quickly. Changing is a security issue.

Error 3

Load 'just throw it in the back'

A 5 kg toolbox can fly forward with an effective force of 250 kg during emergency braking. Danger to life for inmates, especially children.

Error 4

Children in the front passenger seat without a child seat

Child seats are also required in the front passenger seat - take special care if the airbag is active (reboarders up to 15 months, deactivate the airbag if the seats are rear-facing).

Question 1

How much remaining tread must tires have at least?

Answer1.6 mm in the entire surrounding area.

Winter recommendation: 4 mm; Summer: 3 mm - below this the braking distance becomes significantly longer.

Question 2

You are transporting a child who is 8 years old and 1.30 m tall. What applies?

AnswerChild seat is mandatory - size and weight appropriate. Compulsory up to 12 years or 1.50 m.

You are also required to wear seatbelts on buses or taxis (adults are required to wear seatbelts).

Question 3

What is the effect of low tire pressure?

AnswerHigher fuel consumption, faster wear, worse driving behavior, higher braking distance risk.

Check values regularly - indicated on the fuel filler flap or on the door frame.