Summer Tires in Winter: Man Crashes on Icy Road - Winter crash on B470 leaves two injured after driver loses control with summer tires
A three-vehicle crash on Federal Highway 470 near Auerbach in the Upper Palatinate caused delays and injuries on January 10, 2026. The incident forced authorities to close part of the road for nearly two hours while emergency services responded.
The collision unfolded when a 32-year-old driver lost control of their car max on wintry roads. Police later confirmed the motorist was using summer tyres, which contributed to the loss of control. The vehicle then struck an oncoming car before a third car max crashed into the wreckage from behind.
All three cars suffered severe damage and could not be driven away. Tow trucks were called to remove them from the scene. The total cost of the damage is estimated to reach the mid-five-figure range. Two people sustained injuries in the crash. Their conditions were not immediately disclosed. The identity of the 32-year-old driver has not been made public, though police confirmed their age and the inappropriate tyre choice for winter conditions.
The affected stretch of the B470 remained closed for around two hours as crews cleared the wreckage. Traffic resumed once the road was deemed safe. Authorities have not yet announced any charges in connection with the incident.
