Yes because we dont *yet* mandate winter tyres here in the UK.
In other countries however....
France
The use of winter tyres is not mandatory in France. Nevertheless in some mountainous areas signs warn drivers that snow chains are necessary. In France, drivers of vehicles that weigh up to 3.5 tonnes can use spikes from November until the end of March. Vehicles using spikes are restricted to a maximum speed of 90 km/h on out-of-town roads and 50 km/h in residential areas. In addition vehicles have to bare a badge indicating the use of spikes.
Switzerland
Winter tyres are mandatory between 1st November and 15th April for vehicles not using snow chains. These dates may be extended in weather conditions persist.
Snow chains can only be used if the roads have a complete covering of snow and must be fitted on at least two driving wheels.
Austria
Winter tyres are mandatory in Austria. The law states that passenger cars with a permissible maximum weight of up to 3.5 tonnes may be operated only between 1 November and 15 April in winter conditions such as snow, slush or ice if winter tyres have been installed on all wheels. All-season tyres are also considered winter tyres if they have the "M + S" mark.
As an alternative to winter tyres, snow chains may be used on at least two driving wheels, however, these may only be used in case the road is covered by a complete or scarcely broken snow cover or sheet of ice. Failure to comply with the law results in a fine up to 5,000 Euros and the vehicle could be impounded. Insurance is deemed void if a vehicle which is involved in an accident between November 1 and April 15 is not fitted with winter tyres.
Italy
It is not compulsory to use winter tyres in Italy. Snow chains should be carried and used as dictated by local signs or road conditions - reduced speed limits may apply.
From 15th October to 15th April vehicles must be equipped with winter tyres or snow chains in the Val d'Aosta area.
Finland
In Finland winter tyres are compulsory from 1st December to the end of February unless otherwise indicated by road signs. Winter tyres must be marked with the M&S symbol on the sidewall. Spiked tyres may be used from 1st November until the first Monday after Easter.
Snow chains are allowed but only where there's sufficient snow to avoid any damage to the road surface.
Latvia
Winter tyres are compulsory from 1st December until 1st March. Spiked tyres are not allowed from 1st May until 1st October
Norway
Winter tyres are not compulsory, however snow chains are as dictated by local road signs - in the event that there is ice or snow covering the roads winter tyres or tyres with snow chains must be used. Spiked tyres may be used from November 1st until the first Sunday after Easter. If spiked tyres are fitted there is a charge (in Oslo, Bergen and Trondhelm) stickers are available to buy daily, monthly or yearly.
From October 15th until May 1st you are permitted to use spiked tyres in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark.
Sweden
Winter tyres which must be marked M&S are compulsory from December 1st until March 31st with a minimum tread depth of 3mm.
Spiked tyres may be used from October 1st until April 15th but must be fitted to all wheels. Please note that local authorities have the power to ban the use of spiked/studded tyres on their roads.Snow chains may be used if weather/road conditions require.
Slovenia
Snow chains must be carried from November 15th until March 15th (and when the winter weather conditions necessitate) by cars and vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes unless the vehicle is fitted with four winter tyres with a minimum tread of 3mm. Spiked tyres are prohibited.
Germany
Motorists are obliged to make sure they have correct tyres to suit the winter weather conditions. This may mean the use of winter tyres (with M&S & mountain snowflake symbol) and in extreme weather, the additional use of snow chains.
Vehicles with summer tyres fitted are not allowed to be driven on roads covered with snow and ice. Fines are in place for vehicles found to be doing so.
