Weekly chain carry checks coming to I-70 in Colorado

The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) announced the launch of weekly chain law enforcement details on I-70 from now through late May.

On February 25, CSP announced that multi-agency proactive chain carry checks will be taking place weekly along the I-70 mountain corridor through the end of chain law season, at the end of May.

“State Troopers and partnering local agencies from Glenwood Springs to Golden will participate in these operations to enforce dangerous moving violations, especially speed and chain law violations. These operations will be held when weather is not inclement to ensure commercial and private drivers are prepared,” CSP said.

Troopers say they will post public notice on the morning of the chain checks to the official Colorado State Patrol X, Instagram, and Facebook pages. Additionally, the results of the weekly chain checks will be shared on CSP social media pages.

In addition to the weekly I-70 chain checks, troopers will continue chain checks at ports of entry, active chain-up stations, and daily roadside contacts.

“Compliance with traction laws for passenger vehicles (3/16-inch tread depth and rated either “all-weather” or “Mud and snow”) and commercial vehicles is paramount to the safety of everyone in the mountain corridor. Failure to comply can cause extended closures of the interstate. With no reasonable way around closures, serious problems can arise quickly. The Colorado State Patrol aims to continue its efforts to resolve this problem by ensuring compliance before the storms hit to avoid stranded motorists. We also work diligently with our partners in the towing industry to clear the road as fast as possible when motorists become stuck. While enforcement is important, our goal is compliance for safety,” said CSP.

What Are Colorado’s Chain Requirements For CMV Drivers?

See below for more on Colorado chain requirements from CSP.

As of August 7, 2024, all commercial motor vehicle drivers must carry chains from September 1 to May 31. This applies to vehicles with a combined weight of more than 16,000 lbs used in commerce or as transport for at least 16 passengers (including the driver) on public highways. 

Commercial vehicles and buses have a larger footprint on roadways where chains are required. CMVs must carry chains or ATDs on all the following roads regardless of current weather: 

• I-70 west of milepost 259 (Morrison) to the Utah border.
• Colorado Highway 9 mile post 63 to milepost 97 (Frisco to Fairplay).
• Route 40 milepost 256 (Empire) to the Utah border.
• U.S. Route 50 milepost 225 (Salida) to the Utah border.
• U.S. Route 160 milepost 304 (Walsenburg) to the New Mexico border.
• U.S. Route 285 milepost 250 (Morrison) to the New Mexico border.
• All of U.S Route 550.