The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State Patrol (CSP), AutoSock, DriveSafe Colorado, and Gills Point S Tire & Auto held an event in Golden to discuss the state’s updated Traction Law and share winter driving safety tips ahead of the holiday travel season. The event included a demonstration with a “Traction Law Tree” made of tires to highlight recent changes.
As of this fall, Colorado’s revised Traction Law requires all vehicles—specifically those with four-wheel or all-wheel drive—traveling on certain roadways to have tires with at least 3/16-inch tread depth. These tires must be rated as winter tires (with the mountain-snowflake icon), all-weather tires, or mud and snow (M+S) tires. If a vehicle does not meet these standards, drivers must use tire chains or an approved alternative traction device on at least two drive tires.
“It’s important for drivers to ensure that their tires are Traction Law compliant before heading up to the mountains this winter,” said CDOT Public Information Officer Andy Hogle. “Being prepared and following the law keeps everyone safe and helps prevent crashes and delays on Colorado’s roadways.”
CDOT can implement the Traction Law, Passenger Vehicle Chain Law, or Commercial Vehicle Chain Law during winter storms or when conditions require it. The Traction Law is in effect each year from September 1 through May 31 along the I-70 Mountain Corridor between Dotsero and Morrison but may also be activated elsewhere when needed. The law applies to all non-commercial vehicles; violations result in a $50 fine plus a $17 surcharge.
At the event, safety partners provided information on checking tire tread depth, best practices for tire maintenance, and guidance for buying suitable winter tires. Demonstrations showed how to install alternative traction devices such as AutoSock. Attendees also received advice on defensive driving skills for winter conditions and Winter Wise “Check Your Tread” cards.
“Do yourself a favor and check the condition of your tires before a snowstorm hits — you don’t want to get stuck with bald tires on a slick road,” said Joshua Scharfenberg, District Manager at Gills Point S Tire & Auto. “Look for the ‘all weather’ or ‘mud and snow’ rating and ensure your tires have at least 3/16-inch tread depth.”
Officials recommend motorists prepare for winter weather by maintaining their vehicles in good condition and carrying emergency supplies such as first aid kits and extra water. Drivers are advised to clear snow and ice from their vehicles before traveling and practice defensive driving by staying alert.
“I-70 is one of the most unique roads in the country and can be a challenging drive,” said Trooper Sherri Mendez of CSP. “With its high-traffic volumes, unpredictable winter driving conditions, low visibility and steep grades, it’s important for drivers to avoid tailgating and speeding on I-70. In fact, Patrol crash data shows that speeding on I-70 from November to March increases your chances of getting in a crash by 2.5%. Change your driving habits to match the road and weather conditions, or you could ruin your trip before it starts.”
The Tandem Snowplow Law makes it illegal to pass snowplows operating in tandem formation while displaying lights due to potential whiteout conditions created between lanes.
During severe storms, CDOT may implement the Passenger Vehicle Chain Law as a final step before closing highways; when active, every vehicle must use chains or an approved alternative traction device.
Vehicles complying with AWD/4WD requirements need either properly rated tires with sufficient tread depth or must equip chains/approved alternatives on two drive wheels during enforced periods.
