5 Tips for Winter Driving
Coloradoโs weather can change in an instant. On your way to Crested Butte this winter be sure to be updated on road conditions by checking in with Coloradoโs Department of Transportation before and during your travels. Whether youโre used to driving in snowy conditions or not, itโs always good to have a refresher on a few winter driving tips. Make sure youโre prepared with our 5 winter driving tips:ย
Safe Tires
(Photos/Neil Beltchenko)
All-Seasonย tires arenโt best for every season, especially winter in Colorado. Consider investing in winter tiresย or at the least be on top of your tire pressure (3-5 psi higher for winter tires are recommended) and be sure your tires have a healthy tread on them.
How to know if itโs time for new tires? Itโs as simple as 25 cents. Use the Quarter Test to see if itโs time.
Insert a quarter into the tire tread upside down, with Washingtonโs head going in first.
If the top of hisย head is covered by the tread, your tires are okay and good to goย โ do this test at multiple points around each tire.
If the top of his head is visible at any point around the tire, your tires wonโt meet the Colorado Traction Law minimum,ย and new tires are in your future and soon for us too.
Snowplows
This is Colorado, if youโre driving youโre bound to run into at least one snowplow, even if itโs not snowing, on the roads. There is a rule here: Bow to the Plow. Snowplows blindspots are greater than yourโs. Pass on the left, donโt tailgate, and be smart.
Lead Foot = NO NO
Donโt forget even if you have first-rate traction that doesnโt mean you can speed on icy and snowy roads. There are more than one factors out there. Be sure to not use cruise control this winter and check your brakes often. Depending on the tire you run, your stopping distance varies. Check out CDOTโs tire stopping diagram to seeย where you line up.
Traction & Chain Laws
If stormย conditions require, CDOT can implement Passenger Vehicle Traction and Chain Laws. Motorists will be notified via signage along the roadway. There are variations of these laws which can require snow tires and/or chains. If not obeyed fines will be assessed. These laws are that last course of action before roadways are closed completely
Keep a Stocked Car
Who doesnโt like candy on a road trip? Be sure to keep a survival kit in your car throughout the winter seasons. Blankets, snacks, water bottles, phone chargers, jumper cables, and whatever else seems necessary for your party.
Be safe this winter and remember to drive carefully. For more tips and information check withย CDOT.
