Smoking ban in cars in Germany

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Austria bans smoking in cars with children

In my view, smoking in a car with children is simply unacceptable, but apparently not everyone sees it that way. That is why, from 1 May, smoking in a car in Austria is no longer allowed if anyone under 18 is on board. Violations carry heavy fines.

Older people still remember the days when they were allowed to smoke freely and without restriction on trains, in cinemas and even on aeroplanes. In 2009, the Tobacco and Non-Smoker Protection Act (TNRSG) came into force in Austria. Since then, smoking has been banned on public transport such as aeroplanes, trains, buses and trams. Private vehicles were spared by the law. Until now.

Because from 1 May, Austria applies a ban on smoking in cars when travelling with minors under 18. The ban covers the driver and all passengers, as the ADAC points out. In the event of a violation, the driver faces a fine of up to 1000 euros. Austria is not a pioneer here. In Greece and France, smoking is banned if children under 12 are travelling with you. The same applies to children and young people under 18 in the United Kingdom.

A ban on smoking in restaurants was also proposed, but the conservative government rejected the proposal at the end of March. In restaurants and cafeterias, guests may continue to smoke. In Germany, smoking is not allowed in public places and restaurants.