Is snow falling in your state already? What are the winter chain laws you need to be aware of? Here is a quick guide!
I don’t know about you, but I am ready for cool weather, snuggling by a fire, and for the snow to fall!
As winter approaches, trucking companies and drivers need to be fully aware of the laws surrounding snow chains and make sure they are stored on your vehicle!
Truckers, please take the time to prepare by familiarizing yourselves with the chain laws in the states you will travel through, ensuring you have the proper equipment, and practicing how to install chains.
Being proactive can not only help truckers avoid fines but also prevent accidents and delays, ensuring they can complete their deliveries safely and on time.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help truckers understand snow chain laws and prepare for winter driving.
Why Snow Chains Matter
Did you know that Colorado averages 67 inches of snow every year and has much stricter chain laws than other states? In fact, Nevada, California, Washington, and Oregon all have strict chain laws, including increased fines during the harshest months of the year.
We take this seriously as winter driving can be treacherous, particularly in mountainous or northern regions where ice and snow are prevalent.
For trucks hauling heavy loads, the added weight makes stopping and maneuvering difficult under slippery conditions and we all know that losing traction with a vehicle weighing over 10,000 lbs. can lead to deadly circumstances.
Snow chains help by increasing tire traction, giving drivers better control over their vehicles. They are often the only way to safely navigate certain areas during heavy snowfall, especially on steep inclines.
If you are planning to travel across many states this year, have your chains stored properly and know how to use them!
Don’t stop with just the chains!
Preparing for winter weather also means you should:
- Check their battery’s age
- Stock the cab with emergency supplies (like blankets and non-perishable food)
- Install an engine block heater if needed, and
- Go over other basic maintenance like working windshield wipers
Snow Chain Laws: A State-by-State Overview
In the U.S., snow chain laws vary by state and can change depending on current weather conditions. Most states enforce chain laws during specific months of the year, typically from October to April.
Below are the general guidelines and key states to pay attention to.
1. Colorado
Colorado has some of the strictest chain laws, particularly on Interstate 70, which runs through the Rockies.
The Colorado DOT enforces a “chain law” that requires commercial vehicles to carry chains between September 1 and May 31 when traveling on certain mountain passes. If the weather deteriorates, truckers may be required to install chains.
This affects commercial vehicles fitting into one of the following categories:
- Vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of more than 26,000 pounds, inclusive of a towed unit, which has a gross vehicle weight-rating of more than 10,000 pounds
- Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, or
- Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver
Failing to comply can result in hefty fines.
Colorado’s chain law has two levels:
- Level 1: Requires all commercial vehicles to have snow chains or other approved traction devices in icy or snowy conditions.
- Level 2: All commercial vehicles must chain up to proceed, regardless of road conditions.
2. California
In California, chain requirements are typically enforced in the mountainous areas of the Sierra Nevada.
From November through April, the California DOT may require snow chains for commercial vehicles on certain routes when heavy snow is present.
Signs on the road will indicate when chains are required, and failure to comply can result in fines and being turned back from chain control checkpoints.
3. Oregon
Similar to California, Oregon enforces chain laws in mountainous regions and along Interstate 5.
Commercial vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds are required to carry snow chains from November 1 through March 31 when traveling on certain roads, including mountain passes like Siskiyou Summit.
You will need to have six chains on hand to comply in Oregon. The law also requires vehicles to chain up when signs tell you that conditions ahead require them.
Oregon also mandates using traction devices, including chains, when signs indicate hazardous conditions.
4. Washington
Washington State requires all trucks over 10,000 pounds to carry chains between November 1 and April 1 when traveling over mountain passes, including on I-90 through Snoqualmie Pass.
Chain requirements are determined by road and weather conditions and will be posted on road signs.
Fines for non-compliance are strict, and repeat offenses can lead to suspension of driving privileges.
5. Nevada
Nevada’s chain laws apply to several highways during winter months.
Commercial vehicles must carry chains and install them when signs indicate. Failure to do so can lead to fines and being forced to wait out the storm or chain restrictions.
General Snow Chain Law Guidelines for Truckers
While laws vary, here are some general best practices for truckers to follow during the winter months:
- Always carry chains when required: If you are driving through areas known for snow and ice, even if chains aren’t required at the time, be prepared by carrying them in your truck.
- Check weather and road conditions: Before setting off on a route, especially through mountainous areas, always check the latest weather forecasts and any chain-related alerts. Many states provide real-time updates on road conditions.
- Know how to properly install chains: Chains only work if they’re installed correctly. Make sure you’re familiar with the installation process and practice before you need them in an emergency.
- Understand the penalties for non-compliance: Not following snow chain laws can result in fines, penalties, or being prohibited from continuing your route. In some states, fines can reach up to $1,000, and in extreme cases, driving privileges may be revoked.
- Stay updated on local laws: Snow chain laws can be updated or adjusted depending on weather conditions. Apps, state websites, and local news channels provide up-to-date information on chain requirements.
DOT Training
All fleets need to conduct proper and thorough pre and post trip inspections, which consists of implementing quality:
- Driver training that is ongoing and consistent
- Driver education, and
- Driver awareness of current and changing traffic laws
All of this will help prevent being targeted by the DOT at roadside inspections and is a valuable resource to ensure a healthy fleet, and compliant safety practices.
Our DOT trainers offer a variety of in-person or online training courses tailored to the specific needs or weaknesses of your company.
