The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has revealed plans for two enforcement actions on Interstate 70 (I-70) aimed at ensuring that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators are adhering to the state’s regulations regarding tire chains.
CSP officers will be carrying out inspections of CMV tire chains on two specific dates: Wednesday, October 4th, and Friday, October 13th. These inspections will take place on the eastbound section of I-70 at exit 133 in Dotsero.
During these operations, troopers will primarily be focused on enforcing Colorado’s chain law, which requires CMVs to have appropriate tire chains when necessary. Additionally, they will take the opportunity to educate truck drivers about the potential hazards of Glenwood Canyon, where speed limits can vary, and there are travel restrictions in the right lane.
“CMV chain law as well as the passenger vehicle traction law can be implemented any time on I-70 and drivers need to be prepared,” said Sergeant Troy Kessler.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) mandates that drivers of commercial vehicles weighing 16,001 pounds or more (measured by GCWR/GVWR) are required to carry adequate tire chains when traveling on Interstate 70 (I-70) between mile markers 133 (Dotsero) and 259 (Morrison) during the period from September 1 to May 31 each year.
Failure to carry chains on this stretch of I-70 between September 1 and May 31 can result in a fine of $50, along with a $17 surcharge. In cases where drivers do not put on chains when the chain law is in effect, they could face a fine of $500, accompanied by a $79 surcharge. Additionally, obstructing the highway due to not using chains can result in a more severe penalty, with a fine of $1,000 and a $157 surcharge, as specified by CDOT.
