WSDOT prepares for winter storms, reminds drivers of tire and chain requirements

The agency coordinates winter operations with the Washington State Patrol, tow operators, local law enforcement agencies and fire departments. Maintenance crews prioritize highway treatments based on established routes and move personnel and equipment to areas expected to experience the greatest impacts from storms.

WSDOT operates a statewide fleet of snow removal equipment, including 511 snowplows, 31 road graders and five tow plows, according to the agency. Plow trucks can cover between 40 and 100 miles of roadway daily during winter operations.

Officials are asking drivers to slow down and allow additional space around snowplows, which must operate at reduced speeds to apply materials and clear roadways. Collisions involving snow removal equipment can take vehicles out of service for extended periods, particularly when replacement parts must be specially manufactured.

As winter approaches, WSDOT is also reminding drivers that studded tires are permitted on Washington roads from Nov. 1 through March 31.

The restrictions apply to all vehicles traveling in Washington, including those registered in other states. State law does not provide individual exemptions or waivers.

Studded tires do not satisfy requirements for chains when chains are mandatory. Drivers using studded tires must still install chains when posted restrictions require them.

WSDOT estimates studded tires cause between $20 million and $29 million in damage to state-owned pavement annually.

The agency recommends motorists consider stud-free winter traction tires, which are legal throughout the year and do not cause the same pavement damage. Winter traction tires can be identified by a mountain-and-snowflake symbol and should have at least one-eighth inch of tread.

Drivers whose vehicle manufacturers advise against traditional chains must still comply with state traction requirements. The Washington State Patrol maintains a list of approved alternative traction devices.

Motorists who fail to install chains when required face a $500 fine enforced by the Washington State Patrol.

WSDOT officials also cautioned that a single vehicle spinout can force the closure of an entire mountain pass, delaying travelers and emergency response crews.

Mountain pass closures occur for several reasons, including crashes, vehicle spinouts and avalanche control operations. Major collisions can require extended closures when specialized towing equipment is necessary or fuel spills must be cleaned up.

Drivers can reduce the likelihood of delays by traveling at appropriate speeds, maintaining additional distance between vehicles and avoiding distractions. WSDOT recommends postponing nonessential travel during severe winter storms.

Motorists planning to cross mountain passes should carry chains and practice installing them before departing. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly, and chain requirements can change with little notice.

The agency also reminded drivers to watch for pedestrians and cyclists during winter weather, particularly near crosswalks and bike lanes.

Travelers can check current road conditions, mountain pass restrictions and traffic cameras through the WSDOT real-time travel map.

Additional information about winter driving, traction tires and chain requirements is available through WSDOT's winter driving resources.

WSDOT is also recruiting highway maintenance workers for winter operations, particularly applicants with commercial driver's licenses. Job openings are posted at wsdotjobs.com.