Winter driving in Colorado brings a whole new set of challenges for truckers. The weather can make roads slippery and dangerous; mountain ranges can be filled with steep inclines, as well as tight twists and turns; and the unpredictability of passenger vehicles can pose its own risk to truckers on the road.
However, winter also brings its own set of laws for truckers. Due to Colorado’s Chain Law, all commercial vehicles traveling on I-70 between mile points 133 and 259, from Sept. 1 through May 31 must carry sufficient chains. Chains are a necessary aid for commercial vehicles traversing steep climbs in snowy/icy conditions. Without chains, vehicles may become disabled, causing traffic delays or road closures.
With that said, vehicles placarded for flammable, combustible or explosive loads may pass chain-up signs and install their chains where pavement is covered by snow or ice, at a safe location outside the traveled portion of the highway.
As of Aug. 2, 2019, legislation also requires minimum tire tread for vehicles on snowy roads to be 3/16 of an inch, and the minimum tread for dry roads is 2/16 of an inch. Colorado’s Chain Law ceases where bare descending pavement begins and when electronic signs stop displaying “chain law in effect.” If you have any questions about the chain law, you can find its current status by calling 511.
At US Transport, we lead a team of drivers that are driven by excellence and focused on the future. If you’re interested in becoming a driver with US Transport, we’d love to have you as part of our team. We are actively hiring and looking for experienced drivers. Sign-on today!
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