Chain Up Or Face A Fine

The Colorado Department of Transportation is cracking down and enforcing the Passenger Vehicle Chain Law.

I just made that trip across the divide. Needless to say, I was keeping a close eye on the weather and tried to time my trip back and forth to avoid any weather-related issues. I was lucky. My trip over to Missouri and back was uneventful. The fact is the weather in the high country can change rapidly and if you have to make that trip, you better be prepared.

Last weekends snowstorm caused major travel problems. It's a reminder that you'll need to start carrying chains even if you drive an all-wheel-drive vehicle or have snow tires installed.CDOT says the Passenger Vehicle Chain Law is in effect and "any car, vehicle, passenger vehicle, must have chains on the tires or an alternative traction device. This doesn't matter if you're [car is a] four-wheel drive, you must have chains." Enforcement of the law applies when accidents could have been prevented if the driver involved had been "chained up."

Here's a cool "dude-friendly" tire chain installation video courtesy of California's Bear Mountain Resort.

So you know, Passenger Vehicle Chain Law violation fines start at $150. That fine can increase up to $600 if you spin out, clog traffic, or cause a crash. Don't risk it. Invest in the proper equipment now and be ready for whatever winter weather travel challenges you may face.

Credit: Westernslopenow.com