Fines for transporting Christmas trees by car in Europe: how to avoid getting caught?
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An improperly secured Christmas tree is not just a threat of a fine. In the event of an accident, a tree weighing 10 kg can strike with a force of 750 kg. Find out how to avoid fines and make your trip comfortable and safe
Winter is a time of festive bustle, shopping and, of course, transporting Christmas trees. However, transporting a green beauty in a car requires compliance with strict rules to avoid fines and ensure road safety. Let's take a look at what you should pay attention to when transporting a Christmas tree in order not to get caught in Europe.
Rules for transporting Christmas trees in Poland🎄
In Poland, the rules for transporting Christmas trees are clearly regulated. The main requirement is that the tree must be securely fastened and not pose a threat to other road users. It must not:
- block the driver's view;
- block headlights, mirrors or number plates.
Methods of transport
1. Inside the car - the tree is placed in the trunk or on the folded rear seats.
2. On the roof - the tree is placed with the trunk forward and secured with straps.
3. In a trailer - the same rules of secure attachment and visibility are important.
Fines in Poland
▪️ Closed headlights - PLN 200.
▪️ Covered number plates - PLN 100.
▪️ Unreliable fastening - PLN 500.
Don't forget that an improperly secured Christmas tree not only increases the risk of a fine, but can also cause an accident.
Rules for transporting Christmas trees in Germany🎄
Germany also has strict rules for transporting Christmas trees. The main principle is safety and minimising the risk to other road users.
The main requirements are
- Secure fastening: The tree must be secured in such a way that it cannot move or fall out of the vehicle. It is recommended to use special straps to prevent any movement of the tree.
- Visibility is important: The tree must not cover the number plates, headlights, turn signals or obstruct the driver's view.
Violations are subject to fines
▪️ Up to 60 euros for blocked headlights or signals.
▪️ Up to 65 euros for blocked number plates.
Protrusion beyond the dimensions of the car:
If a tree protrudes more than 1 metre from the rear, a red or orange warning element must be attached to it.
The maximum allowable protrusion is 1.5 metres. Breaking these rules can cost you up to 75 euros.
Transportation inside the cabin:
The Christmas tree must be placed so that its slight movement does not disturb the driver or passengers. Use protective covers to avoid dirt and damage to the upholstery.
If a poorly secured Christmas tree causes an accident, the driver may face a fine of up to €150 and loss of insurance coverage.
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Fines for improper transportation of Christmas trees in Europe🎄
In many European countries, fines of up to 240 euros can be imposed for non-compliance with the rules for transporting a Christmas tree. For example:
▪️ If the Christmas tree protrudes more than 1 metre from the open trunk, but does not exceed 1.75 m, the fine will be 160 euros.
▪️ Exceeding 1.75 m increases the fine to €240.
Tips for proper transport
In the car: Fold down the rear seats and place the tree so that the bottom of the tree is in the boot. Place a blanket or film to protect the interior from pine needles and resin.
On the roof: Place the tree with the trunk facing forward, securing it with secure straps. Elasticated fasteners are not suitable - they can fail.
With the trunk open: The length of the tree's protrusion at the back of the car should not exceed 1 metre. Otherwise, be sure to attach signalling elements (for example, a red flag).
We remind you! In a few weeks, Ukraine will celebrate Christmas and the New Year, so it's time to start preparing for the upcoming holidays. One of the main attributes is a beautiful Christmas tree. We told you where to buy the best Christmas tree in different regions of Ukraine.
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