Colorado’s I-70 & The Traction Control Laws

Winter is a magical time of year, with crisp air and beautiful snowscapes. However, for drivers on I-70, winter also means dealing with snow and ice on the roads, often resulting in traffic congestion and hazardous driving conditions. To help ensure everyone’s safety, Colorado has implemented traction control laws for vehicles traveling on I-70 in the winter months. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at I-70 traffic in the winter and the traction control laws that apply.

I-70 Traffic in the Winter

During the winter months, I-70 becomes a major thoroughfare for skiers and snowboarders headed to Colorado’s world-renowned ski resorts. As a result, the highway can become incredibly congested, with long lines of cars inching their way up the mountain. The situation is often exacerbated by weather conditions, including snow, sleet, and ice, which can lead to accidents and other hazards.

A popular social media account called I-70 Things helps document some of the wild conditions.

To help mitigate these dangers, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has implemented a number of measures, including snowplows, road closures, and traction control laws. These laws require certain types of vehicles to have specific types of tires and/or chains when driving on I-70 during the winter months.

Traction Control Laws

Colorado’s traction control laws apply to all passenger and commercial vehicles traveling on I-70 between Dotsero and Morrison from September 1 to May 31. Under these laws, vehicles are required to have adequate tires and/or chains depending on the type of vehicle and the conditions on the road.

For passenger vehicles, traction control laws require the following:

1. Vehicles must have snow tires or all-season tires with a mud/snow (M+S) designation.
2. Vehicles must have tire tread depth of at least 3/16 of an inch.
3. Vehicles without snow tires or all-season tires with M+S designation must have chains or an alternative traction device.
4. Vehicles with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive are exempt from the chain law if they have adequate tire tread depth.

For commercial vehicles, traction control laws are more stringent. The following are required:

1. Vehicles must have tire chains on the drive tires.
2. Vehicles must have adequate tire tread depth.
3. Vehicles must have a working air-pressure monitoring system.
4. Vehicles over 26,000 pounds must have chains on all tires.

Conclusion

Winter driving on I-70 can be a challenge, but it is critical for everyone’s safety that drivers follow Colorado’s traction control laws. Failure to comply with these laws can result in significant fines and even the suspension of driving privileges. By staying informed and prepared, drivers can help ensure a safe and enjoyable winter season in Colorado. So, if you plan on traveling on I-70 this winter, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped and take extra precautions on the road.

Take a look at the 4 Best Things to do Between Breckenridge and Denver