Victorians planning trips to the state’s alpine regions this winter are being urged to prepare their vehicles and drive with extra caution as the ski season gets underway.
The reminder comes from RACV, which attended nearly 4,000 roadside assistance callouts across Victoria’s alpine areas during the 2025 ski season between June and September. Demand for assistance reached its highest levels in July, reflecting the busiest period for winter travel.
The Victorian ski season officially opens on 6 June, with thousands of visitors expected to head to popular snow destinations over the coming months.
RACV General Manager Automotive Services Makarla Cole said winter conditions present additional challenges for drivers, particularly in alpine areas where weather can change rapidly.
“Fog, snow and ice reduce visibility and traction, making it harder to stop, steer and assess road conditions,” Ms Cole said.
She encouraged motorists to prepare before setting off, including checking the condition of their vehicle and ensuring they have appropriate roadside assistance cover.
According to RACV, the most common causes of breakdowns in alpine regions are battery failures, flat tyres, vehicle lockouts and frozen diesel fuel.
Cold weather can place added pressure on vehicle batteries, prompting RACV to recommend battery testing before long trips. Drivers are also being advised to inspect tyre tread and ensure they carry snow chains when travelling to alpine resorts.
Under Victorian regulations, motorists entering alpine resorts are required to carry snow chains, even if they are not fitted to the vehicle. Failure to do so can result in a fine of $395.
Road safety experts have long warned that winter conditions can increase crash risks due to reduced grip and visibility. RACV’s advice aligns with broader guidance from road authorities, which encourages motorists to leave greater distances between vehicles, reduce speed in poor conditions and avoid sudden braking on icy roads.
Among RACV’s recommendations is maintaining a safe following distance, being alert to black ice and checking that vehicle essentials such as lights, windscreen wipers, heating systems and fluid levels are functioning properly before departure.
Ms Cole said drivers should also plan journeys carefully, schedule regular rest stops and monitor weather forecasts before travelling.
“If conditions deteriorate, pull over and wait until it is safe to continue,” she said.
With ski resorts preparing for another busy season, authorities and motoring organisations are hoping travellers take extra precautions to reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and crashes on mountain roads.
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