Meeting Snow Chain Regulations

Since all areas do not have the same laws and regulations regarding the use of snow chains or snow tires it is best if you check on these with your local police department before purchasing your snow chains.

In the world’s iciest polar regions, snow chains are a way of life. They help vehicles move through ultra-slick conditions by adding extra control on snow and ice. The chains actually dig into the frozen surface to provide additional traction. Snow chains can also be helpful in less extreme winter environments, although drivers looking for a little help through the snow may find themselves in contravention of snow chain regulations.

Before altering your vehicle in any way, whether it is a traditional car, truck, or van, or whether you have an all terrain vehicle (ATV), it is important to check that your changes will be in compliance with local, state, provincial, or federal regulations. For example, in some areas it may be perfectly legal to install snow chains on your truck during the winter season, while in other areas, the practice is prohibited.

There are different reasons why snow chains are allowed in some areas and banned in others. Some governments believe snow chains, which are meant to cut into ice and snow, will also damage road surfaces, therefore adding extra civic maintenance and repair costs. In other jurisdictions, snow chains are considered dangerous, as they are often installed improperly, and could fly off a tire at high speed. Obviously, anyone caught in the chains trajectory could be injured or killed.

If snow chains are allowed in the area in which you live or where you will be driving, ensure they are affixed properly to the tire. Your vehicle’s manual may have instructions about snow chains, including whether they should be attached only to the drive wheels, or whether they can be put on all wheels.

Snow chains are often replaced by studded tires, which act in much the same way as snow chains. They do, however, have similar restrictions, so you will have to check with local authorities to determine whether studded tires are allowed in your area, and if so, whether there are other regulations like seasonal limitations (such as only between October and March).

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