| Chain regulation expands |
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| ODOT News |
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Oct. 28, 2009
The Oregon Department of Transportation has amended the state’s chain regulations to add a new snow zone condition. The change addresses situations where chains are not needed for tandem drive axle trucks but are needed for other vehicles. The Oregon Trucking Association requested the change.
Chains required on vehicles towing or single drive axle over 10,000 GVW
Under the new condition, when signs are posted, you must use chains on any single drive axle vehicle rated over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW) and you must use chains if your vehicle is towing and less than 10,000 GVW (such as a pickup towing a boat). Chains must also be used on the trailer or vehicle being towed. Under this condition, chains are not required on tandem drive axle vehicles.
“There are times when large multi drive axle trucks might not need to put on chains, but single drive axle trucks over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW) or other vehicles towing trailers will need to chain up,” said ODOT District 12 Manager George Ruby. “The new chain condition is another tool for ODOT to use during inclement weather conditions and we expect it will help keep traffic moving with fewer tie-ups.”
Winter weather conditions can occur almost any time of year in Oregon’s varied climate.
“It’s a good idea to carry chains whenever you travel, especially in fall and winter months,” said ODOT Maintenance and Operations Engineer Luci Moore, “And, it's required in most mountain passes in winter months.”
In very bad winter road conditions all vehicles may be required to use chains regardless of the type of vehicle or type of tire being used. This is known as a conditional road closure and may occur on any of Oregon's highways.
“Regardless of whether the chains required signs are posted, it is every driver’s responsibility to maintain control of their vehicle at all times,” said Ruby.
Chain information including snow zone notices, minimum chain requirements and diagrams are posted on Oregon’s travel information Web site, www.tripcheck.com. Snow zone notices and road condition information is also available by phone. From within Oregon, call 511 or 1-800-977-ODOT (6368). From outside Oregon, dial 503-588-2941.
Drivers who disobey the signs requiring chains or traction tires are subject to a traffic infraction, $190 for failure to obey snow zone signs and $544 for failure of a commercial vehicle to use chains.
###ODOT###
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