20 Fines Issued in Andorra for Unprepared Vehicles During Storm Goretti Snowfall

Police and traffic agents issued 20 fines during last weekend's heavy snowfall caused by Storm Goretti, as drivers failed to equip their vehicles properly for winter conditions across Andorra.

The snow disrupted roads throughout the Principat, starting Friday afternoon in higher parishes like La Massana, Canillo, and Ordino, then spreading overnight and into Saturday morning to lower areas including Andorra la Vella. Control points were set up by police and parish traffic agents to enforce equipment requirements, prevent accidents, clear congestion, and assist drivers struggling with chains.

Of the fines, five came from police—three on Friday and two on Saturday, targeting four Spanish-registered vehicles and one Andorran. The remaining 15 were handed out by traffic agents: nine in La Massana, two each in Canillo, Ordino, and Andorra la Vella. The Andorra la Vella cases followed a collision at the kilometre zero roundabout involving two unequipped cars.

These penalties bring the season total to 38 since the mandatory period began on 1 November, requiring winter tyres or chains. Prior to the storm, 18 fines had been recorded: 11 by police, mostly on local vehicles (nine Andorran, six Spanish, one French), and seven by Canillo agents.

The offence, classified as serious under the Road Traffic Code, carries a 180-euro fine and can be issued by either police or parish agents.

Police reminded drivers to remove snow from vehicles before driving to avoid endangering others, and to regularly check winter tyre wear.