The winter months in Colorado can bring snow, ice, and frigid temperatures. Having the proper tires for winter driving conditions is crucial for staying safe on the roads. Choosing tires that provide optimal traction and performance in cold weather and snow should be a top priority for Colorado drivers. This article will provide an overview of the key factors to consider when selecting winter tires for vehicles in Colorado.
Understanding Winter Tires
Winter tires, also known as snow tires, are designed specifically for driving in cold temperatures and snowy or icy conditions. The rubber compound used in winter tires remains pliable and flexible in temperatures below 45°F, providing much better traction than all-season or summer tires. Winter tires also have aggressive tread patterns and siping (small slits in the tread blocks) that allow the tires to grab and hold packed snow.
Compared to all-season tires, winter tires offer shorter braking distances, better acceleration, enhanced steering responsiveness, and reduce the likelihood of becoming stuck in snow. While all-wheel drive can help with traction, winter tires are essential for safety in wintry Colorado conditions.
When to Use Winter Tires
In Colorado’s high country and mountain towns, winter tires are recommended for daily drivers from late October through April, when snow and cold temperatures are the norm. Even in Denver and other Front Range cities that don’t get as much snow, winter tires are advised whenever temperatures drop below 45°F.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) requires commercial vehicles to have winter tires on I-70 in the high country between September and May. For passenger vehicles, CDOT recommends using winter tires when traveling to the mountains in cold weather months.
Choosing the Best Winter Tires
When selecting winter tires, focus on finding ones made specifically for snow and ice traction. The best winter tires will have a mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall, indicating they meet standardized snow traction requirements. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Tread pattern – Look for tires with aggressive, wide tread blocks to cut into snow and evacuate slush. Siping helps provide extra biting edges.
- Rubber compound – Ensure the rubber stays flexible below 45°F for grip on ice and snow.
- Studded vs. non-studded – Studded tires provide the best traction on icy roads, but they are not allowed in some states. Most modern non-studded winter tires offer great performance without studs.
- Narrower width – Narrower tires tend to perform better in deep snow, so consider dropping from a standard to narrow width.
- Rim size – Keep your winter tire rim diameter close to your regular tires for accurate speedometer readings.
- Load index/speed rating – Match or exceed the load index and speed rating of your current tires.
Consulting with a tire shop can help you select the right winter tires for your vehicle based on the conditions you drive in most. Proper installation and inflation are also key for maximizing winter tire performance and safety.
Winter Driving Safety Tips
Along with equipping your vehicle with suitable winter tires, it’s important to adjust your driving habits when snow and ice are present:
- Slow down and increase following distance
- Avoid abrupt acceleration, braking or turning
- Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads
- Equip your vehicle with emergency supplies like blankets, food and water
- Keep your gas tank at least half full
- Limit distractions and focus on the road
Staying alert and maintaining control of your vehicle is critical for safe winter driving. Understanding the capabilities of your winter tires will give you added confidence when conditions deteriorate.
If You’re in an Accident, Call for Help
Preparing your vehicle with the right winter tires is the best way to enhance safety this season, however, accidents do still happen. The attorneys at Monge & Associates have 32 offices in 19 states, including Colorado, Illinois, and Washington, and can provide a free consultation on any winter driving accidents at (888) 477-0597. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault.