The list of mandatory car equipment in the Czech Republic will change
As Vinegret.cz reports, the transport ministry has already drafted a corresponding bill, which will be considered by the government in the near future. If everything goes smoothly, the innovation will come into force on October 1, 2018.
The Ministry of Transport decided that it makes no sense to fine motorists for the absence of certain spare parts, as cars have become so complex that drivers cannot replace them on their own anyway.
If the law is passed, drivers will no longer need to carry spare fuses and bulbs for headlights, a spare wheel and a tire repair kit, a jack, and a wheel wrench in the trunk. The last three items apply only to cars equipped with modern tires that allow driving to a service station on a flat tire, or whose repair is possible without removal (using gel or spray). In addition, a spare wheel is not mandatory for drivers who have a roadside assistance contract in the Czech Republic (this refers to car towing or emergency roadside repairs, often included in insurance policies).
Furthermore, the contents of the first aid kit will also be reduced. It is proposed to remove scissors, an adhesive bandage with an absorbent pad, a triangular sling bandage, and a plastic resuscitation mask. In this matter, the ministry follows the logic that too many tools in the first aid kit do not help but rather hinder. In an emergency, people find it difficult to figure out which item is for what, and out of fear of harming the victim, they prefer to do nothing.
Another good news: the bill proposes to abolish the concept of "expiration date" for car first aid kits (both for the entire kit and for each component). Drivers will only need to ensure that the packaging of bandages and other materials remains intact. Currently, drivers are forced to buy new first aid kits when the expiration date indicated on them expires. Otherwise, they face a fine of up to 2,000 crowns.