Winter Driving in Denver: Understanding Colorado’s Traction & Chain Laws

Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys

Colorado’s traction and chain laws go into effect each year as soon as winter weather arrives, usually between September 1 and May 31. According to KKTV, the state’s “Traction Law” applies to passenger vehicles under 16,001 pounds traveling on Interstate 70 between Morrison and Dotsero. When conditions warrant, these vehicles must either have (1) tires with at least 3/16‑inch tread depth that are branded “all weather” or “mud and snow,” (2) an approved alternate traction device, such as cables, or (3) tire chains. Drivers who ignore the traction law can face a $50 fine plus a $17 surcharge; commercial drivers who fail to carry or install chains may face even higher penalties【585487053742714†L132-L170】. In severe storms, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) can activate the “Chain Law,” which requires all vehicles, including those with four‑wheel or all‑wheel drive, to use chains or traction devices when driving through certain mountain passes【585487053742714†L132-L170】.

Understanding Colorado’s Traction & Chain Laws

The traction law is in effect annually from September 1 through May 31 along I‑70 between Denver and the mountain towns. It is triggered whenever snow, ice or slushy conditions make the roadway hazardous. Under this law, passenger vehicles must have appropriate tires or devices to ensure adequate grip; specifically, tires must have at least 3/16‑inch tread depth and be designated for all‑weather use. An approved alternate traction device, such as cables, or traditional tire chains also satisfy the requirement. Commercial motor vehicles must carry chains from Milepost 133 (Dotsero) to Milepost 259 (Morrison) during this period and install them when directed【585487053742714†L132-L170】. Fines for failing to comply range from $50 to $500, and if a driver blocks the road because they failed to chain up, the penalty can reach $1,000【585487053742714†L132-L170】.

These laws exist to keep traffic moving and reduce accidents in treacherous conditions. In mountainous areas, even a small amount of snow can create slick roads and steep grades where vehicles may spin out or slide into guardrails. Ensuring adequate traction helps drivers maintain control, prevents crashes and keeps traffic flowing.

Why Winter Driving Is Risky in Colorado

Colorado consistently ranks among the more dangerous states for winter driving. According to a MoneyGeek analysis cited by Tenge Law Firm, Colorado ranked 11th in the nation for winter driving dangers in 2021【407693582128346†L126-L172】. The combination of high elevations, rapidly changing weather and heavy tourist traffic can make roads treacherous. I‑70 over the Rockies often sees whiteout conditions, black ice and sudden temperature drops, which can lead to multi‑vehicle pile‑ups. Even urban areas like Denver experience icy morning commutes and reduced visibility when storms move through the Front Range.

These hazards mean that motorists must remain vigilant and drive more cautiously when temperatures drop. Unfortunately, drivers sometimes assume that all‑wheel drive or four‑wheel drive vehicles provide immunity from slick roads; however, these vehicles still need adequate tire tread and chains when conditions require.

Winter Driving Safety Tips

To stay safe when snow and ice cover Colorado highways:

Switch to winter tires: Winter tires have deeper treads and softer rubber compounds that improve grip on snow and ice【407693582128346†L126-L172】.
Prepare an emergency kit: Keep a small shovel, tire cables or chains, flares or reflective triangles, blankets, non‑perishable snacks, water and a charged cellphone in your vehicle【407693582128346†L126-L172】.
Check your lights: Make sure headlights, brake lights and turn signals are working properly and free of snow and ice【407693582128346†L126-L172】.
Slow down and increase following distance: On snowy or icy roads, stopping distances can double or even triple. Reducing speed and leaving extra space gives you more time to react【407693582128346†L126-L172】.
Avoid sudden movements: Accelerate and brake gently, and steer smoothly to maintain traction.
Keep windshield and windows clear: Use a quality ice scraper and keep your washer fluid topped up.

Legal Options After a Winter Driving Accident

If you are injured in a winter crash in Denver or elsewhere in Colorado, you may have the right to seek compensation. Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence system: you can recover damages as long as you are less than 50 percent at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault, so it is important to gather evidence showing that another driver’s negligence—or a governmental agency’s failure to properly maintain a work zone—contributed to the crash. Insurance companies often argue that poor weather, rather than negligence, caused the accident, so documenting road conditions, taking photographs and obtaining witness statements can strengthen your claim.

Colorado generally requires injured parties to file personal injury lawsuits within three years of a motor vehicle accident. However, claims against government agencies may have shorter deadlines, sometimes as little as 180 days to provide notice. Because winter crashes often involve factors like snow removal operations or road maintenance, consulting an attorney early ensures you meet all deadlines and preserve evidence.

Steps to Take After a Winter Crash

After a winter accident:

Check for injuries and move vehicles out of traffic if it is safe to do so.
Call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance.
Document the scene by photographing vehicles, road conditions, signage and any snow or ice accumulations.
Exchange insurance information and contact details with other drivers and witnesses.
Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor—symptoms like whiplash or internal injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Notify your insurance company promptly but avoid making recorded statements until you have spoken with an attorney.
Consult an experienced Denver car accident lawyer to discuss your rights and options.

Local & Legal Connection

Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys proudly serves clients in Denver and across Colorado. Our team understands the nuances of winter driving accidents, including cases involving the state’s traction and chain laws. If you have been hurt in a crash on I‑70, a city street or a rural mountain road, our Denver car accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. We also handle claims against negligent drivers, trucking companies, road maintenance contractors and government agencies. For a free consultation, contact us through our contact page today.

Compassionate Conclusion

Driving in Colorado’s winter wonderland can be beautiful but also extremely hazardous. We urge all motorists to prepare their vehicles, respect road closures, and follow traction and chain laws. Our thoughts are with those who have been injured in recent winter crashes. If you or a loved one has been involved in a winter‑weather accident near Denver, Strong Law is here to answer your questions and provide compassionate legal guidance.