Chain Law For Passenger Vehicles Goes Into Effect On I-70 For First Time This Season
IDAHO SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4) - A winter snowstorm that started on Thursday and continued on Friday led to treacherous driving conditions across Colorado.
Conditions on Interstate 70 in the foothills were so bad Friday morning that the Colorado Department of Transportation put the chain law for passenger vehicles into effect for the first time this season.
The law requires that cars with less than an eighth of an inch of tread on their tires use chains for added traction.
CDOT said law was in effect between Golden and Idaho Springs for several hours.
This winter CDOT is trying to encourage drivers in the mountains to make sure they aren't driving on bald tires. Transportation officials say such tires often lead to the types of accidents that tie up traffic on Interstate 70 during winter weather.
CDOT spokeswoman Amy Ford said drivers can determine the length of their tread by sticking a quarter in the tire tread. If the tip of George Washington's head on the coin is visible, then the tires will need chains when the law is in effect.
Drivers who are found to be in violation aren't likely to face a penalty, but if they drive on such tires and are in an accident, they will be hit with a fine of approximately $200.
Ford encouraged drivers to also give plenty of room to snowplows in the snowy conditions.
"As you see our plows out there, remember that they are doing a job, and that job is to keep you safe," she said. "So here's my plea: Bow to the plow. It is the biggest piece of equipment out there. It can do damage if you get to close to it so please steer clear of that plow. They are out there to make sure you get to where you need to go."
