Winter Chain Laws and Mountain Pass Prep for Truck Drivers

Practical Tips for Winter Chain Preparation

This time of year, it's important for drivers to prepare by checking their equipment, ensuring they have the proper chains, and staying informed about weather conditions and road closures. Additionally, many states have specific chain laws that dictate when and where chains are required.

For example, In Washington State, commercial vehicles traveling in certain winter conditions are required to carry at least 8 chains. This requirement helps ensure that trucks can maintain traction and safely navigate snowy or icy roads, especially in mountainous areas. 

All commercial vehicles traveling northwest need to carry at least 8 chains.

Drivers need to be prepared for this season by having chains on hand, knowing how to install them properly, and being aware of local regulations regarding chain usage. 

 

Some of the most well-known mountain passes are:

• Snoqualmie Pass I-90 Washington. Ellensburg to North bend 78 miles.
• Deadman Pass I-84 Oregon. Pendleton to LaGrande 52 miles.
• Donnor Pass I-80 California. Truckee to Kingvale 15 miles
• Veil Pass I-70 Colorado. Vail to Copper Mountain 20 miles

We all know If weather conditions are severe enough that chaining up becomes necessary, it’s often safer to pull over and wait for conditions to improve.

Mountain passes like Snoqualmie, Donnor, Deadman can experience rapidly changing weather conditions. Sometimes, you might encounter chain restrictions due to snow or ice at the pass, but once you get through, the weather can be clear and dry on the other side. So it is important to know how to chain up.

 

To help you prepare, check out this practical how-to video on tire chaining. It covers the essentials of fitting and securing chains for maximum traction and safety.