On Colorado’s high-elevation roads like Interstate 70 between Morrison and the Continental Divide, winter storms often create treacherous driving conditions. When drivers ignore Colorado’s traction and chain laws during snow and ice events, they not only risk their own safety but also cause closures, crashes and injuries. State officials emphasize that these laws are not optional and that failure to comply can turn the highway into a disaster zone【266508807615910†L94-L112】. With winter approaching, it’s critical for Denver‑area drivers to understand these rules and the steps they can take to avoid accidents and protect themselves legally.
What Are Colorado’s Traction and Chain Laws?
Colorado’s Passenger Vehicle Traction Law applies to vehicles weighing less than 16,001 pounds and is usually activated on the I‑70 corridor between Dotsero and Morrison from September 1 through May 31. When the traction law is in effect, drivers must have one of the following: a four‑wheel‑drive or all‑wheel‑drive vehicle with at least 3/16‑inch tread; tires bearing the “Mud and Snow” (M+S) or three‑peak mountain snowflake symbol; or a set of chains or an approved traction device【266508807615910†L122-L132】. If conditions deteriorate further, the more stringent Passenger Vehicle Chain Law may be activated, requiring all vehicles to attach chains or approved devices to two drive tires【266508807615910†L122-L132】. The Colorado Department of Transportation imposes fines over $130 for failing to carry proper equipment and over $650 if a vehicle without appropriate traction equipment blocks the roadway【266508807615910†L170-L172】. These penalties underline how seriously the state takes winter driving safety.
Why Winter Accidents Happen Near Denver
Car and truck crashes spike during winter storms because drivers fail to slow down or adapt to reduced traction. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 320 fatal crashes and more than 22,000 injury crashes in the United States during snow and sleet conditions in 2023【701502603619566†L107-L111】. An estimated 101,390 police‑reported crashes occurred when snow or sleet was present【701502603619566†L117-L123】. The most common causes include driving too fast for the conditions, following too closely, and abrupt steering or braking on icy pavement. Snow plows and sanders create temporary road obstructions; the NHTSA advises motorists not to crowd plows and to stay well behind them【701502603619566†L125-L128】. Ignoring Colorado’s traction and chain requirements multiplies these risks, turning high‑country highways into “disaster zones”【266508807615910†L94-L103】. Staying off the road when advisories are issued, or at least equipping your vehicle properly, reduces the chances of causing a serious accident.
Winter Driving Safety Tips
Preparing yourself and your vehicle before you travel can make all the difference when conditions deteriorate:
- Slow down and increase following distance: Slick surfaces require longer stopping distances【701502603619566†L117-L123】. Leave plenty of room behind other vehicles and brake gently.
- Equip your car properly: Make sure your tires meet the 3/16‑inch tread requirement or have the M+S or snowflake rating. Carry chains or an approved traction device whenever you drive the I‑70 corridor between September and May【266508807615910†L122-L132】.
- Pack an emergency kit: Include chains, jumper cables, blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, traction material (like sand or cat litter), a first‑aid kit and a phone charger【266508807615910†L202-L218】. Keep an ice scraper and shovel handy.
- Use headlights and avoid cruise control: Increase your visibility to other drivers and maintain control.
- Give snow plows space: Do not crowd plows; stay far behind to avoid flying debris or sudden stops【701502603619566†L125-L128】.
- If you’re stranded, stay with your vehicle: Use hazard lights or tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna for visibility, run the engine intermittently and keep the exhaust pipe clear to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning【701502603619566†L132-L140】.
What to Do After a Winter Accident
If you are involved in a snow‑ or ice‑related crash, taking the right steps can protect your health and preserve your legal rights:
- Call 911 and seek medical help – even if injuries seem minor.
- Move yourself and your vehicle to safety if possible – avoid standing in a travel lane and turn on hazard lights.
- Document the scene – take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions and any posted traction law signs. Gather witness contact information.
- Arrange towing – contact a tow service to remove your vehicle from the roadway【266508807615910†L220-L236】.
- Notify your insurance company – report the accident promptly but be cautious about giving recorded statements.
- Consult a Denver car accident attorney – an experienced lawyer can advise you on your options under Colorado’s negligence laws and help you pursue compensation.
Legal Options for Winter Accident Victims in Colorado
Colorado is a modified comparative negligence state with a 50 percent bar. Under Colorado’s comparative fault statute (§13‑21‑111), an injured person can recover compensation only if their share of fault is less than 50 percent【164105952567642†L150-L154】. If the plaintiff is 50 percent or more at fault, they cannot recover any damages【164105952567642†L150-L154】. When multiple parties share blame—such as a driver with worn tires and another motorist who was speeding—each person’s percentage of fault will reduce their award. Because insurance companies often try to shift blame to avoid paying claims, it is important to document evidence and seek legal advice soon after a crash.
Colorado law gives most accident victims three years to file a lawsuit arising from a motor vehicle collision【858032087138125†L262-L267】. Waiting too long can bar recovery. If a crash occurred because a vehicle did not meet traction or chain requirements, victims may have claims against the negligent driver, the vehicle owner, or even a commercial carrier. Consulting an experienced Denver attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Local & Legal Connection
In addition to following safety protocols, if you are injured in a winter weather crash near Denver or along the I‑70 corridor, you have legal rights. Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys serves clients throughout the Denver metropolitan area and the foothills. Visit our Denver car accident lawyer page to learn more about the services we offer or contact us for a free consultation.
Compassionate Conclusion & Call to Action
Our hearts go out to everyone who has been injured or lost loved ones in winter driving accidents. By equipping yourself properly and understanding Colorado’s traction laws, you can help reduce crashes and keep our roads safe. If you or someone you care about has been injured in a winter weather accident, our Denver team is ready to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today.
