What Is Chain Law In Colorado?

What Is Chain Law In Colorado
Colorado’s Chain Law

Colorado’s chain law applies to all state, federal and interstate highways, and was initially enacted in 1996. Colorado’s chain law defines commercial vehicles as being used in commerce to transport passengers or property and fitting into one of the following categories: gross combination weight rating of 16,001 or more pounds, inclusive of a towed unit, which has a gross vehicle weight-ration of more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating of 16,001 or more pounds designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver

: Colorado’s Chain Law

What is the new chain law in Colorado?

New Chain Law in Colorado Combating Wintery Conditions Starting in September 2022, all commercial vehicles traveling on Interstate 70 between Dotsero and Morrison will be required to have snow chains in their possession during the winter months. This new law, implemented by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), aims to improve safety and prevent road closures due to unfavorable weather conditions.

How drivers will be notified: Drivers will be notified in many different ways via interstate message boards, 511 traveler information, the COTrip website, and media outlets. What drivers need to do:

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, “Chains must consist of two circular metal loops, one on each side of the tire, connected by not less than 9 evenly-spaced chain loops across the tread. Commercial vehicles that have 4 or more drive wheels must chain 4 wheels.

Dual tire chains are acceptable.” The chains must be tight enough to provide traction, but not so tight that they cause damage to the tire or vehicle.
It is important to regularly check and adjust the tension of the chains while driving.
Additionally, it is important to remove the chains once they are no longer needed for driving on snowy or icy roads.

Leaving them on for extended periods of time can lead to wear and tear on the tires. When not in use, it is recommended to store chains in a cool, dry place to prevent rusting. Proper maintenance and care of chains can ensure their effectiveness and longevity.

Taking Safety Seriously This rule is just one of many steps being taken by CDOT to ensure safe driving conditions for all travelers in Colorado’s often unpredictable mountain regions.
For more information on this and other laws, visit the CDOT website or contact their offices.
Stay safe on the roads this winter and be prepared for any weather conditions.

: New Chain Law in Colorado Combating Wintery Conditions

Is the chain law in effect in Colorado?

Colorado’s Chain Law – Colorado’s Chain Law is not just for Large Commercial Vehicles. All vehicles need to be prepared to have adequate tires and equipment when traveling in Colorado during the winter. Chain Law and safe tire requirements can be put into effect at any time for all types of vehicles. These requirements have recently changed. Interstate 70 Winter Driving Requirements, from the beginning of September until the end of May. All motor vehicles operating with a GCWR/GVWR of 16,001 pounds or more on I-70 in either direction between milepost 133 (Dotsero) and milepost 259 (Morrison) must carry sufficient chains (traction devices) for the type of vehicle being driven to be in compliance with the chain law requirements should they go into effect.

All two-wheel drive motor vehicles with a GCWR/GVWR less than 16,001 pounds traveling on any portion of I-70 between mile point 259 (Morrison) and mile point 133 (Dotsero) must have: Tire chains for two or more drive tires; OR An approved ATD for two or more drive tires; OR Tires with a tread depth of at least 3/16-inch and which are rated for either “All weather” or “Mud and Snow” (indicated by a “All Season,” M+S, M/S, etc.

on sidewall) by the manufacturer. All four-wheel drive motor vehicles with a GCWR/GVWR that is less than 16,001 pounds traveling on any portion of I-70 between mile point 259 (Morrison) and mile point 133 (Dotsero) must have tires with a tread depth of at least 3/16-inch and are adequate for winter driving conditions.

Penalty for non-compliance: $50 fine plus a $17 surcharge.
There are three types of restrictions (commonly referred to has chain laws) which may be placed in effect on roadways in Colorado.
FFFFFF Passenger Vehicle Traction Law To be disqualified by an appointing authority upon admission or confirmation of: The passenger traction law requires two-wheel drive passenger vehicles to have all weather or mud and snow rated tires with adequate tread or to affix chains or alternate traction devices (ATDs).

Four/all-wheel drive vehicles must have all drive wheels engaged and tires with adequate tread depth. Passenger Vehicle Chain Law The Passenger Vehicle Chain Law imposes the most restrictive requirements during inclement weather. All passenger vehicles must have chains or alternate traction devices (ATDs) on two or more drive tires.

This applies to every two/four/all-wheel drive passenger vehicle in the affected area. Commercial Vehicle Chain Law The Commercial Motor Vehicle Chain Law is a requirement for all large vehicles to affix chains or alternate traction devices (ATDs) to all drive tires (up to four). Even though it has “commercial” in the name, the requirement is based on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) for the vehicle regardless of its use (private or commercial).

Penalty for non-compliance with winter driving restrictions: Up to a $500 fine plus a $79 surcharge or, if you are stuck and blocking any traveled portion of the roadway the fine is $1,000 plus a $157 surcharge. How will the different chain law restrictions be announced? At a minimum, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will notify the public of the travel restriction with erected static and electronic variable message roadway signs.

What does chain up mean in Colorado?

All commercial vehicles traveling on I-70 between mile points (MP) 133 (Dotsero exit) and 259 (Morrison exit) from Sept.1 through May 31 must carry sufficient chains to be in compliance with the Colorado chain law. Chains help commercial vehicles traverse the steep climbs often present in the high county.

Without chains, vehicles often become disabled, causing traffic delays and sometimes road closures. For the safety of the traveling public, it’s critical to use chains to comply with Colorado’s chain law. A chain law restriction for vehicles weighing less than 16,001 pounds—including passenger vehicles, crossovers, SUVs and small trucks—can be put into effect in Colorado at any time when weather conditions are severe, primarily on roadways with significant ascending and descending grades.

From Sept.1 through May 31, use the following chain law resources: Under the Colorado chain law, a commercial vehicle is defined as being used in commerce to transport passengers or property and fitting into on of the following categories:

Has a gross combination weight rating of 16,001 or more lbs. inclusive of a towed unit which has a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds; or has a gross vehicle weight rating of 16,001 or more pounds; or is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

Commercial vehicles operating on I-70 in either direction between mile points 133 (Dotsero) and 259 (Morrison) from Sept.1 to May 31 must carry sufficient chains at all times to be in compliance with the Colorado chain law. Chaining Up Metal chains must consist of two circular metal loops, one on each side of the tire, connected by not less than nine evenly-spaced chain loops across the tread.

Commercial vehicles that have four or more drive wheels must chain four wheels. Dual tire chains are acceptable. Alternate Traction Devices (ATDs) Approved ATDs in Colorado are wheel sanders, which carry enough sand to get the vehicle through the restricted area; pnuematically driven chains, which spin under the drive wheels automatically as traction is lost; and textile traction device (TTD), a fabric boot which encompasses the tire.

Currently, the only TTD that has been approved for use on Colorado state highways is the AutoSock, TM Tire Cables With only two exceptions, Colorado chain law rules do not permit tire cables as alternate traction devices. The exceptions are: 1) tire cables with high strength steel cross member rollers 0.415″ or greater in diameter, which can be used on all commercial vehicles except single drive axle combinations; and 2) on a tandem power drive axle commercial vehicle, where any type of cable can be used only if there are chains on the two outside tires of one of the power drive axles and cables on two or more tires of the other power drive axle.

Station Locations I-70 Eastbound : mile points 178, 183, 184 (shoulder), 187 (shoulder), 195, 203 (scenic area), 205, 219, 228, 241, 251, 289, 343 I-70 Westbound : mile points 358, 263, 260, 254 (Buffalo Overlook), 228, 223, 221, 219, 213, 197, 179 I-25 Northbound : mile point 157 I-25 Southbound : mile point 172 Chain Law Level 1/Code 17: All single-drive axle combination commercial vehicles must chain all four drive wheels; cables are not permitted as ATDs.

All other commercial vehicles must have snow tires or chains. Level 1/Code 17 may be implemented any time there is snow covering any part of the traveled portion of pavement on an ascending grade. Chain Law Level 2/Code 18: All commercial vehicles must chain up.

Single drive axle combination and tandem drive axle commercial vehicles must chain four drive wheels.
Autotransports must comply to the extent possible without causing damage to hydraulic lines.
Buses must chain two drive wheels to comply.
Level 2/Code 18 may be implemented any time there is snow covering the entire traveled portion of pavement on an ascending grade, or when driving conditions dictate that this level is necessary to protect safety and to minimize road closures.

The fine for not carrying chains on I-70 between mileposts 133 and 259 from September 1 to May 31 is $50 plus a $17 surcharge, Statewide, the fine for not chaining up when the chain law is in effect is $500 plus a $79 surcharge, The fine for not chaining up and subsequently blocking the highway is $1,000 plus a $157 surcharge,

What roads in Colorado require chains?

August 29, 2011 – Statewide Transportation Plan – STATEWIDE— With the summer quickly coming to a close, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is preparing for the first snowfall in the high country and with the chain law season starting in September, commercial vehicle drivers should also be preparing for the winter ahead.

Starting September 1 st, all commercial vehicles traveling on I-70 between milepost 133 (Dotsero exit) and milepost 259 (Morrison exit) must carry sufficient chains to be in compliance with the Colorado chain law. The law requires commercial vehicles to carry chains on this segment of I-70 from September 1 st to May 31 st,

“Colorado’s first snow fall can hit at any moment in the higher elevations and we don’t want commercial vehicle drivers to be caught off guard,” said CDOT Region Transportation Director Tony DeVito. “To help drivers comply with the chain law, we have 21 chain stations along the I-70 corridor as well as numerous programs that aid drivers with their winter travels.” Colorado’s chain law applies to all state, federal and Interstate highways and was initially enacted in 1996.

Chain Law Level 1 requires all single drive axle combinations commercial vehicles* to chain up. All four drive wheels must be chained; cables are not permitted as an alternate traction device. All other commercial vehicles must have snow tires or chains. Level 1 may be implemented any time there is snow covering any part of the traveled portion of pavement on an ascending grade. Chain Law Level 2 requires all commercial vehicles to chain up. Auto transports must comply to the extent possible without causing damage to hydraulic lines. Buses must chain two drive wheels to comply. Level 2 may be implemented any time there is snow covering the entire traveled portion of pavement on an ascending grade or when driving conditions dictate this level is necessary to protect safety and minimize closures.

To help ensure that commercial vehicles have a safe location to chain up or down, CDOT has 21 chain stations along the I-70 west corridor, many of which have been improved over the last several years and provide more parking and a safer environment. Truck drivers are advised to watch for yellow signs indicating exact chain station locations. The 11 chain stations on eastbound I-70 are located at mileposts 178, 183, 184 (shoulder), 187 (shoulder), 195, 203 (scenic area), 205, 219, 228, 241 and 251. The ten chain stations on westbound I-70 are located at mileposts 263, 260, 254 (Buffalo Overlook), 228, 223, 221, 219, 213 (brake check area) and 197 (scenic area) and 179. In addition, CDOT has a few chain stations on the I-70 east corridor at mileposts 289 and 343 eastbound and milepost 358 westbound. There is also a chain station located on northbound I-25 at milepost 157 (near Monument) and southbound at milepost 172 (near Larkspur). The alternate traction control device known as the AutoSock™ remains an approved device in Colorado. Commercial vehicles (both single and double axle) exceeding 26,000 Gross Vehicle Weight or vehicles carrying 16 passengers or more will have the option of using AutoSock™ rather than chains. This traction control device is a fabric that slips over a vehicle’s outer driving wheels, providing extra traction on snowy and icy roads. It also can be installed over the tire in less time than traditional chains. To help keep the highways clear and traffic moving, CDOT will continue its heavy tow program for the fifth year in a row. The program is designed to promptly clear disabled heavy trucks from the highway in order to open the road more quickly. “Since the inception of the program in 2007, we have greatly reduced traffic delays and congestion due to disabled vehicles,” said CDOT Traffic Engineer Bernie Guevara. “In fact, last year, nearly 200 commercial vehicles were relocated, 214 lanes were cleared and the average clearance time was approximately 22 minutes.” Heavy tow coverage will begin around Thanksgiving and will continue each weekend through late March or early April 2012. Typical hours of operation are Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on westbound I-70 and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on eastbound I-70. Other coverage days include Martin Luther King Jr. Day and President’s Day. Other days may be added for inclement weather if CDOT deems it necessary. CDOT also offers one other program to help commercial vehicle driver through inclement weather. The chain assistance program allows vendors to assist commercial vehicles when the Colorado Chain Law is in effect by selling and installing chains and other approved equipment. Vendors will be on site at chain stations where the chain law is currently in effect. The service will be available starting around Thanksgiving, depending on weather. For the safety of the drivers and the traveling public, CDOT strongly encourages drivers to use the chain stations and follow the reduced speed limit which will be displayed at the respective electronic Variable Speed Limit signs near each chain station when the chain law is in effect. In addition, please be cognizant of the right lane restriction for all slow moving vehicles on all uphill grades greater than six percent except when it’s necessary to obey traffic control devices, exit or enter the Interstate or when weather or traffic conditions require otherwise. Commercial vehicle drivers are also encouraged to sign up for e-mail and text message alerts on chain laws and other road condition information. To receive updates visit www.coloradodot.info and click on the logo in the upper right-hand corner below the search function and choose the appropriate items under “Chain Law” as well as any other traveler information you may be interested in. Road condition and chain law information may also be found at www.cotrip.org or by calling 511. # # # *Colorado’s chain law defines commercial vehicles as being used in commerce to transport passengers or property and fitting into one of the following categories: >Gross combination weight rating of 26,001 or more lbs. inclusive of a towed unit which has a gross vehicle weight ration of more than 10,000 lbs >Gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more lbs >Designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver

Do I need chains if I have snow tires Colorado?

Passenger Vehicle Chain Law – During severe winter storms, all passenger vehicles must have chains on their tires or alternate traction devices on two or more drive tires. This includes four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles. The Colorado Department of Transportation will have signage indicating that the law is in effect.

What is the fine for not having snow chains in Colorado?

It is unlawful to proceed when a state highway is closed or to proceed when a restriction is in effect without the required chain/ATD equipment installed. Violators will be given a citation, which comes with a $100 fine and $32 surcharge.

Is Colorado a no idle state?

Colorado Laws and Ordinances –

Aspen – Limits vehicle idling to five minutes in any one-hour period and the vehicle must be attended to at all times Basalt – Limits vehicle idling to no more than two consecutive minutes Denver – Limits vehicle idling to five minutes in any one-hour period and the vehicle must be attended to at all times. Johnstown – Vehicles weighing more than ten thousand (10,000) pounds are forbidden from idling for more than 15 minutes in any one-hour period Greenwood Village – Vehicles weighing more than twelve thousand (12,000) pounds are restricted from idling for a consecutive period longer than five minutes Mountain Village – Limits vehicle idling to five minutes within any one-hour period and the vehicle must also be attended to by a licensed operator Telluride – Limits vehicle idling to 30 seconds and vehicle must be attended by a driver. Idling time permitted is extended to three minutes for starting an engine in cold weather Winter Park – Limits vehicle idling to no more than 15 consecutive minutes

In addition to the laws and ordinances listed above, Colorado Revised Statute 42-4-1206, more commonly known as the “puffer” law, allows law enforcement officers across the state to immediately ticket individuals who have left a vehicle running unattended for any period of time.

Is Colorado a zero tolerance state?

What are the zero-tolerance DUI laws in Colorado? | Susan Fuller & Associates, P.C. No one should drive under the influence of alcohol. Drivers who are legally allowed to consume alcohol, in other words, those aged 21 or over, must not drive when they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of,08% or more.

However, those under the age of 21 are in most cases not legally permitted to consume alcohol, regardless of whether they are intending to get behind the wheel or not.
This is one of the reasons why there are zero-tolerance DUI laws for drivers under the age of 21.
How do zero-tolerance laws work? Everyone has naturally-occurring levels of alcohol in their body, and this can fluctuate depending on several factors.

Therefore, if a driver under 21 is pulled over by law enforcement officials and asked to perform a Breathalyzer test, they will not be expected to have a BAC of,00%. In Colorado, the, If a driver under 21 is found to be above this, they will face DUI charges.

How can I defend against DUI charges? As a driver under the age of 21, you may be able to challenge the validity of the Breathalyzer test result, especially if your BAC was recorded to be only a little above,02%.
If you have a health condition such as diabetes, you may also be able to present evidence to suggest that you had an abnormally high level of naturally occurring alcohol in your body.

If you or your child is, you must take swift action to address the charges and avoid the consequences. : What are the zero-tolerance DUI laws in Colorado? | Susan Fuller & Associates, P.C.

Are automatic chains legal in Colorado?

Are allowed to use 4 tire chains; 4 autosocks; auto chains or sanders covering 4 drive tires. used together. Trucks with an APPROVED alternate traction device ( auto chains, sanders and autosocks ) are NOT required to carry chains from September 1st through May 31st. Are required to use 2 tire chains.

How does driving with chains work?

How Do Tire Chains Work? – Trick Trucks Tire chains are used to help vehicles get through especially heavy or dense snow on the road. Usually tire chains are used in mountainous areas that see a lot of snow throughout the winter. So how do they work? It’s actually pretty simple.

Traction and wheel spin are the two factors at play here. Traction Tire chains wrap around the tread of the tires and latch tightly to prevent them from slipping. Basically, they allow the tires to get a better grip on snow and ice covered roads, giving the vehicle more traction and better control. Different size chains are manufactured for different tire sizes, so make sure to get the right size.

Using the wrong size tire chains can damage your tires. Wheel spin In addition to gaining traction by biting into the snowy surface, tire chains also increase traction by preventing wheel spin. Wheel spin happens when the force delivered to the tire tread via the engine is greater than the tread-to-surface friction available, which makes the tires lose traction.

Tire chains are very useful for driving through the snow, but they do carry certain restrictions.
You shouldn’t go faster than 30pmh when driving with tire chains.
In addition, driving on bare asphalt with tire chains can shorten their lifespan.
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We are here for you. If you have any questions, please contact Trick Trucks by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here today! Check us out on and as well. Source : How Do Tire Chains Work? – Trick Trucks

Why is it called a chain?

History and usage – The chain was originally called an “acre’s breadth”, because it was the width of a acre, while a furlong was the length. Edmund Gunter, a clergyman and mathematician, invented a measuring device called a chain. The chain was 66 ft (20 m) long.

It was divided by 100 in small metal links. The links were made of thick wire with a loop at each end. The links were connected to each other by three rings. There were brass handles at each end. People folded the chain up, link by link, and carried it in their hand. The name chain comes from these devices.

The unit was once important in everyday life in the United Kingdom and its colonies and in the United States, People used it when they made maps and planned out cities and towns. Land was surveyed and measured using these chains. Even after more accurate ways of measuring land were invented, many people continued to use the chain as a unit because land had already been surveyed in this method for so long.

How does chain work on snow?

Snow chains work simply by increasing the amount of grip that tyres have on the roads when they are icy or covered in snow. Increasing the traction between the car and the road makes driving in adverse wintery conditions much safer as it reduces the chance of cars losing control and skidding on icy surfaces.

Do I need chains if its not snowing?

Using Chains For Tires Under The Right Conditions – Tire chains for cars should only be used if there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on bare pavement can cause substantial damage to both your tires and the road itself. If you turn onto a road that’s clearly been plowed and salted, pull over and remove the chains.

It always pays to be careful when driving in freezing conditions, but chains require a whole new level of attention and care. Snow chains for car, truck and SUV applications all work the same way to increase grip but there are limitations. When on, the car should not be driven above 30 miles per hour and you have to be mindful of curbs when parking.

On two-wheel drive vehicles, chains must be attached to wheels on the drive axle, but ideally you get them on all four. If installed only in the front there will be a tendency to oversteer and a tendency to understeer if they’re only in the back. Four-wheel drive vehicles should have chains installed on all tires.

Once the tire chains are installed drive a block or two and tighten them again.
Some vehicles with selectable driving modes may need to be in the appropriate mode when using snow chains, so check your owner’s manual just in case.
Once you get to an area of clear roadway, take off the chains.
The aggressive traction that make tire chains so effective can also cause increased tire wear, so only keep them on when you need them.

Though they can be cumbersome, snow chains make a real difference in winter weather when you need to get somewhere without mother nature’s permission, but only if they’re being used safely and effectively. Otherwise, you’ll just be spinning your wheels.

Once you are done using your snow chains inspect them for any breaks, corrosion, or physical damage before putting them away.
Give them a good spray with WD-40 so they will be ready for next season.
Check out all the tire chains and tire cables available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs.

For more information on tire chains for cars, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store, Photo courtesy of Flickr

Can any car drive in snow with chains?

Winter driving on roads and highways in the snow-capped mountains of California can be a pleasant adventure – or it can be frustrating, tiring and sometimes even hazardous. The California Highway Patrol provides the following information to help make your mountain driving safe and pleasant.

Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers,defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition. Check your antifreeze and be ready for colder temperatures. You may want to add special solvent to your windshield washer reservoir to prevent icing. Check your tires. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition. Always carry chains. Make sure they are the proper size for your tires and are in working order. Carry a flashlight and chain repair links. Chains must be installed on the drive wheels. Make sure you know if your vehicle is front or rear wheel drive. Other suggested items to carry in your car are an ice scraper or commercial deicer, a broom for brushing snow off your car, a shovel to free your car if it’s “snowed in,” sand or burlap for traction if your wheels should become mired in snow; and an old towel to clean your hands. It is also a good idea to take along water, food, warm blankets and extra clothing. A lengthy delay will make you glad you have them. Put an extra car key in your pocket. A number of motorists have locked themselves out of their cars when putting on chains and at ski areas. Allow enough time. Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter than other times of year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay. Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe turnout to use a snow or, ice or scraper. Use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep the windows free of fog. Slow down. A highway speed of 55 miles an hour may be safe in dry weather – but an invitation for trouble on snow and ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes. Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles and for snow equipment. Even though snow removal vehicles have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm that it is difficult to see the slow moving equipment. When stalled, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be alert to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems.


R1:	Chains required – snow tread tires (MSS on side of tire) allowed.
R2:	Chains required on all vehicles except four-wheel drives with snow tires.
R3:	Chains required – all vehicles no exceptions.

R1 and R2 are the most common conditions. The highway is usually closed before an R3 condition is imposed.

You must stop and put on chains when highway signs indicate chains are required. You can be cited by the California Highway Patrol and fined if you don’t. You will usually have about a mile between “Chains Required” signs and the checkpoint to install your chains. Control areas can change rapidly from place to place because of changing weather and road conditions. The speed limit when chains are required is 25 or 30 miles and hour and will be posted along the highway.

When you must put on chains, wait until you can pull completely off the roadway to the right. Do not stop in a traffic lane where you will endanger yourself and block traffic. Chain Installers: If you use the services of a chain installer, be sure to get a receipt and jot the installer’s badge number on it. Remember, chain installers are independent business people, not CHP employees. Having the badge number may help with any misunderstandings later. Chain installers are NOT allowed to sell or rent chains. When removing chains, drive beyond the signs reading “End Chain Control” to a pull-off area where you can safely remove them.

The CHP urges you to check road conditions often. The best way to do this is to call the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Road Conditions Hotline: 1-800-427-ROAD (1-800-427-7623) Back to Top

Which cars dont need chains in the snow?

Chain Requirement Levels – During the winter months, motorists may encounter traction chain controls in the mountain areas within California. When chain controls are established, signs will be posted along the road indicating the type of requirement. There are Three Levels of Chain Requirements in California:

Requirement 1 (R-1) : Chains are required on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks under 6,000 pounds gross weight and equipped with snow tires on at least two drive wheels. Chains must be carried by vehicles using snow tires. All vehicles towing trailers must have chains on one drive axle. Trailers with brakes must have chains on at least one axle. Requirement 2 (R2) : Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. NOTE: (Four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas.) Requirement 3 (R3) : Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions.

Truckers, see our Truck Chain Requirements page, R-1 and R-2 are the most common conditions. A highway will often be closed before an R-3 condition is imposed. Some local areas may use variations of these designations. You must follow the directions on the signs posted for chain controls or any instructions given by Caltrans or CHP personnel at chain control check points, even if these are at variance with broadcast road condition reports or information contained herein.1 Snow-tread Tires: The California Vehicle Code, Section 558 defines a snow-tread tire as follows, “A ‘Snow-tread tire’ is a tire which has a relatively deep and aggressive tread pattern compared with conventional passenger tread pattern”.

Snow-tread tires can be identified by examining the sidewall of the tire where the letters MS, M/S, M+S or the words MUD AND SNOW have been stamped into the sidewall.2 Tire Traction Devices: The California Vehicle Code, Section 605 defines tire traction devices as follows: “Tire Traction Devices are devices or mechanisms having a composition and design capable of improving vehicle traction, braking and cornering ability upon snow or ice-covered surfaces.

Tire traction devices shall be constructed and assembled to provide sufficient structural integrity and to prevent accidental detachment from vehicles. Tire traction devices shall, at the time of manufacture or final assembly, bear a permanent impression indicating the name, initials or trademark of the assembling company or primary manufacturer, and the country in which the devices were manufactured or assembled in final form.” The full, searchable version of the California Vehicle Code is available at: Leginfo, the website for California Legislative Information.

What happens if you don’t have snow chains?

What happens if you don’t have snow tires or chains during the winter? Can it damage your car? – You might have heard that chains can snap off and damage your car. While that can happen on rare occasions, it shouldn’t be your only concern. The fact is that snow tires and chains are intended to give you more traction on slippery roads,

Can you use snow tires instead of chains?

Studded snow tires are permitted in California from November 1 until April 30 each year. During this time, studded tires are permitted in any location within the state. Studded snow tires are not considered tire traction devices and may not be used in lieu of chains.

Do I need chains if I have AWD?

While you can probably safely drive your AWD (all-wheel-drive) with all-season tires in light or moderate snow, it’s a common misperception that AWDs will act like a tank in slick conditions. That just isn’t the case. You need snow or winter tires or even snow chains when facing severe winter roads in any vehicle.

Are auto socks allowed in Colorado?

Skip to content Colorado [email protected] 2022-10-06T14:16:52-06:00 What Is Chain Law In Colorado CDOT has approved the AutoSock as the first named alternative traction device to chains that is accepted within the state for both commercial and passenger vehicles. For more information, check out their site: Passenger or Truck, PDF visual chart with winter tips for Colorado Chain Laws, Colorado recently updated the passenger traction and chain laws, for more information click here.

Do you need chains with 4wd Colorado?

If I have 4-wheel-drive, do I need to carry chains? Yes. Even though weather conditions may not warrant the use of chains on 4-wheel-drive vehicles at a particular time, to enter a chain control area, you must have a set of chains (for one drive axle) for your vehicle in your possession.

Do snow socks work as well as chains?

Con’s –

As snow socks are made of textiles rather than metal, they tend to rip and wear away quicker than their metal counterparts.Snow socks severely limit your speed on the road. Most snow socks recommend you drive between 20 and 30mph. One of the biggest negatives of snow socks is their effectiveness on ice. Snow socks will only improve traction slightly on ice, much less so than snow chains.Against snow chains, snow socks generally provide less grip on snow and ice.Snow socks tend only to be for use on smaller vehicles like cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks. If you have an oversized vehicle, you are better off purchasing snow chains instead.

Is Colorado a no idle state?

Colorado Laws and Ordinances –

How many snow chains are required for semi trucks in Colorado?

Do you need chains to drive to Breckenridge?

Winter Driving and Road Conditions: – Depending on your planned routes, time of year, and weather during your trip, you will almost certainly experience winter driving conditions including but not limited to: icy or snow-covered roads, deep snow or even road closures.

We recommend you monitor road condition reports ( www.cotrip.org/map.htm#/roadConditions ) closely on days where any extended travel or unfamiliar travel routes are planned.
We also strongly recommend an AWD or 4WD vehicle for your travel.
This is often even a requirement for reaching many Breckenridge rental locations.

Snow tires are recommended, and during certain conditions, tire-chains are required by law. We can assist in securing you a shuttle or professional driver if this is preferred. What Is Chain Law In Colorado

Do snow socks work as well as chains?

Con’s –