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Colorado's New "Must Carry" Expansion Chain Law

Sep. 17 2024 Safety By McCandless Idealease

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New Law - Colorado 'Must Carry' Expansion! 

In May of this year, the Colorado Senate passed bill SB24-100, introducing new safety measures for truck drivers traveling through Colorado. According to the new bill, from September 1 to May 31, truckers must have four snow chains or alternative traction-enhancing equipment for any commercial vehicle with a declared gross vehicle weight of 16,001 pounds or more. These requirements apply to the following roads:

  • Interstate Highway 70 (I-70) west of milepost 259 (Morrison)
  • Colorado State Highway 9 from milepost 63 to milepost 97 (Frisco to Fairplay)
  • U.S. Route 40 west of milepost 256 (Empire)
  • U.S. Route 50 west of milepost 225 (Salida)
  • U.S. Route 160 west of milepost 304 (Walsenburg)
  • U.S. Route 285 west of milepost 250 (Morrison); and
  • U.S. Route 550 from milepost 0 to 130.

Senate Bill 24-100 allows the department to create specific areas to enforce speed limits more strictly, especially regarding commercial vehicles. Additionally, commercial vehicles are now prohibited from using the far left lane on certain highways unless they are passing a vehicle traveling below the speed limit. These rules apply to the following roads.

  • In Glenwood Canyon
  • In Dowd Junction (I-70 between Avon and Vail)
  • The west side of Vail Pass
  • The tunnel grade on both sides of the Eisenhower-Johnson tunnels
  • Georgetown Hill
  • Floyd Hill

To make these new laws clear, the Colorado State Patrol has announced the installation of new signage along specific roadways, emphasizing commercial drivers being vigilant about the changing regulations. Plan a smooth trip with COtrip to ensure you adhere to these changes.

Ensure you are ready for your trip and contact our parts department  to equip your truck with the proper tire chains for your vehicle. Additionally, McCandless Truck Center is an authorized OnSpot Automatic Tire Chain Dealer. Let our certified professionals install your OnSpot Tire Chains. Contact your nearest McCandless Truck Center and schedule your installation today!


Download CDOT "Must Carry" Flyer: