Colorado drivers soon will be able to hire people to install tire chains on their cars or commercial trucks before crossing mountain passes in winter weather.
Senate Bill 69, signed into law Thursday afternoon by Gov. Jared Polis, creates a permitting system so vendors can install and remove tire chains and other traction devices to help passing drivers better navigate snowy conditions. The new law also requires car rental companies to notify customers of state traction laws between Sept. 1 and May 31.
The new law goes into effect in August.
“We are committed to ensuring that all drivers are safer while traveling on our roads,” Polis said in a statement. “Traveling the iconic Rocky Mountains requires responsibility from all drivers, and that our vehicles are prepared for the mountain weather. This bill will help make it easier for drivers to follow our chain laws and keep each other and our roads safe.”
The bill passed with bipartisan majorities in the House and Senate. The sponsors all represent the mountains or communities on the Western Slope: Sens. Marc Catlin, a Montrose Republican; and Dylan Roberts, a Frisco Democrat; and Democratic Reps. Meghan Lukens of Steamboat Springs and Elizabeth Velasco of Glenwood Springs.
In a news release after the signing, Lukens noted the mountain communities often see visitors who have little experience driving in winter conditions or with traction devices. Spinouts and crashes can shut down Interstate 70 and other roads for hours, as well as result in life-altering injuries.
“Glenwood Canyon has the most accidents and road closures along I-70 nationally, which is why we need this law to protect Colorado drivers,” Velasco said in the release. “Keeping Western Slope roads open and safe is a priority in my district to ensure that residents, tourists and long-haul truckers can get where they need to go quickly and safely.”
The state Department of Transportation will oversee the program and can charge a fee for the permits. The installation permits will be valid only for areas specified on the permits.
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