Traction Law Implemented 145 Times on Corridor in Three Month Period
DENVER — The Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) initiative to educate motorists about the importance of driving with proper tires along the I-70 Mountain Corridor is in full motion with the continued implementation of the Traction Law (Code 15) and Operation TireSafe courtesy tire checks.
Between Oct. 22 and Jan. 20, the Traction Law has been implemented 143 times. Of those instances, 129 were along I-70, 14 occurred on U.S. 6 over Loveland Pass and two on U.S. 40 over Berthoud Pass. When the Traction Law is in effect, all passenger vehicles must have either snow or mud and snow (M+S) tires, a four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicle, or use chains or an alternative traction device. All tires, regardless of the vehicle, must have a minimum one-eighth inch tread.
“It makes sense for vehicles to be prepared for the conditions, and that’s exactly what the Traction Law requires,” said Division of Transportation Systems Management and Operations Director Ryan Rice. “If you’re in a snow storm and your tires aren’t adequate, you’re not only a danger to yourself, but everyone else on the road.”
Rather than wait for motorists to travel I-70 with faulty tires, CDOT is taking a proactive approach, partnering with statewide tire partners to conduct Operation TireSafe courtesy tire checks. Coinciding with the National Ski Areas Association’s (NSAA) National Safety Month, on Jan. 16, representatives from Big O Tires, Coloradoland Tire and On-Site Tires held courtesy tire checks at I-70 ski resorts where visitors could have their tires inspected and receive information about the Traction Law.
“We had an excellent time in Vail educating motorists about the importance of good tread on snowy roads,” said Big O Tires franchise owner Matt Greco. “We managed to inspect the tires on 1,141 vehicles and found that 73 cars, or about six percent, had tires that didn’t meet the Traction Law requirements of snow tires, mud and snow tires or the minimum tread depth.”
Recreational, commercial and commuting drivers on I-70 can stay informed about conditions and an active Traction Law by watching roadway signage, calling 511, checking COtrip.org, or during peak travel times, listening to CDOT’s Mountain Travel Radio (via COtrip.org). Drivers can also access up-to-date information via @ColoradoDOT on Twitter.
To encourage motorists to invest in proper equipment, CDOT is partnering with tire companies across the state to provide discounts on winter tires. Visit winter.codot.gov/tires to find a nearby tire partner.
For more detailed information about the Traction Law, safety stats and frequently asked questions, visit winter.codot.gov/TractionLaw.
Operation TireSafe is part of CDOT’s Change Your Peak Drivecampaign, which works to improve the I-70 Mountain Corridor by encouraging mountain travelers to change not only the time they drive, but also how they drive. Through public education and strategic partnerships, CDOT works to give motorists the tools they need to be winter ready and know the resources they have for I-70 information. To learn more about the campaign and winter driving tips, visit winter.codot.gov.
ColoradoLand Tire and Service is a family-owned and operated, tire and service shop that specializes in delivering the level of customer service you would find in small town America. ColoradoLand offers top of the line tires from most of the major brands, including a Price Match Guarantee on any quoted price for the same products they offer, as well as auto repair and service on nearly all makes and models at its nine locations throughout the greater Denver area. For more information about services and a list of locations, visit ColoradoLandTire.com.
Big O Tires is the team you trust for complete vehicle maintenance. Stop by any of our nine conveniently located Western Slope locations for a free tire and alignment inspection, plus 10 percent off any tire purchase (up to $100 discount per invoice). Big O Tires is family owned and locally operated, and committed to bringing you the best service and tires at the best prices! For more information, visit BigOTires.com or bigotires.com/regions/western-
On-Site Tires is the tire store that comes directly to you. Our mobile tire service is affordable and convenient, and we also offer roadside assistance. For more information about the tire guys at On-Site Tires, call 720-410-7007 or visit On-SiteTires.com.
