COLORADO — The annual commercial vehicle chain carry requirement in Colorado begins September 1 and runs through May 31, covering mountain corridors where winter weather can arrive early and catch drivers unprepared. Here is what truckers need to know before heading into the mountains.
Who Must Comply
The requirement applies to vehicles with a combined weight over 16,000 pounds used in commerce, or vehicles transporting 16 or more passengers including the driver, on designated public highways.
Required Routes
I-70 west of mile marker 259 (Morrison) to the Utah border. Colorado Highway 9 from mile marker 63 to mile marker 97 (Frisco to Fairplay). Route 40 from mile marker 256 (Empire) to the Utah border. US Route 50 from mile marker 225 (Salida) to the Utah border. US Route 160 from mile marker 304 (Walsenburg) to the New Mexico border. US Route 285 from mile marker 250 (Morrison) to the New Mexico border. All of US Route 550.
Fines for Violations
$50 or more for not carrying chains. $500 or more for not chaining up when required. $1,000 or more for blocking the roadway as a result of not chaining up.
How Many Tires Must Be Chained
Straight trucks, single drive axle combinations, tandem drive axle combinations, and auto transporters are generally required to chain four drive tires. Tandem axle combinations may use tire cables of 0.415 inches or greater in diameter under specific conditions. Auto transporters should not use chains if doing so risks damage to hydraulic lines — approved ATDs may be used instead.
Hot shot truckers pulling trailers that meet the weight threshold must carry two chains for singles or four for duallies. Buses require two chains, two cables of 0.415 inches or greater, two AutoSocks, auto chains, or sanders.
Colorado State Patrol conducts checkpoints throughout fall and winter to verify compliance. Drivers can check chain law status at cotrip.org or through CDOT’s electronic signage, radio channels, phone message system, and automated notification systems.
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