Name: Winter driving laws you should know to avoid to fines
Uploaded: 2025-12-11T08:10:47.634Z
Duration: 1 min 31 s
Description: Driving without the right tires or without clearing the snow from your vehicle can get you charged in certain states.

Driving without the right tires or without clearing the snow from your vehicle can get you charged in certain states.

Colorado

Colorado has introduced stricter winter driving laws, requiring drivers to use winter, all-weather, or mud and snow tires with a minimum tread depth of three-sixteenths of an inch. Violators who cause traffic blockages in snowy or icy conditions without compliant tires may face fines up to $650, though traction devices like snow chains are also accepted.

Additionally, several states mandate the removal of snow and ice from vehicles, with fines imposed for non-compliance. In New York City, failing to clear three inches or more of snow from a vehicle can result in fines up to $850. Even in states without specific snow removal laws, obstructed views due to snow can lead to reckless driving charges.

Winter driving laws you should know to avoid to fines

With winter now here, there are some important winter driving laws that you should be aware of as a violation could cost hundreds of dollars and put yourself and others at risk of a crash in Colorado. This winter brings a big change to the centennial state's traction law. If you don't have winter, all-weather, or mud and snow tires with at least three-sixteenths of an inch tread depth and you cause a blockage to traffic in snow or ice, a hefty $650 fine could come your way. If you don't have the approved tires, traction devices like snow chains are an accepted alternative. If you're flying to Denver to pick up that rental car for a ski trip, ask the car rental company if the tires are compliant so you stay out of trouble. As the flakes fly and snow covers your car or truck, some state and even city laws require you to clear the snow and ice from your roof, hood, and windows or that could cost you. Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alaska have laws requiring you to clear it or you may face a fine. In New York City, drivers must clear the snow if it is three inches or more or a fine could reach $850. Even if you're in a state without a specific snow removal law, if there is deep snow on your hood obstructing your view, you could be charged with reckless driving. Investing in the right tires and taking the time to clear the snow and ice will keep you much safer and keep the fines away.

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