CDOT reminded drivers that chain laws run through May 31 following recent crashes tied to spring weather conditions across the state. The reminder comes after severe weather on April 14 led to multiple incidents, including a large pileup on a major freight corridor.

The crashes included a pileup involving about 70 vehicles, according to reports, and led to the closure of eastbound Interstate 70 in Clear Creek County, about 50 miles west of Denver. Eight people were taken to the hospital.

What CDOT says about current conditions

CDOT stated that winter conditions remain a concern even as the season changes.

“Snowstorms can still occur throughout the remainder of spring, and CDOT officials emphasize that compliance with state Traction and Chain Laws is a matter of public safety, not a suggestion,” the release stated.

Officials also addressed speed during changing conditions.

“In addition, posted speed limits apply only to ideal conditions — if the weather changes, so should your speed. CDOT reminds drivers to slow down and give others plenty of space during spring storms.”

Conditions on mountain routes

CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew pointed to how quickly conditions can change in higher elevations.

“Tuesday’s crashes are a sobering example of how quickly conditions deteriorate when drivers are unprepared for Colorado’s unpredictable winter weather,” Lew said. “We are seeing a dangerous trend of motorists neglecting safety protocols. The reality is that mountain passes and the Interstate 70 Mountain Corridor can transition from dry pavement to ice in minutes.”

Colorado chain and traction law requirements

These requirements apply to commercial motor vehicles operating on Colorado highways during the enforcement period.

Where to check conditions before entering Colorado

CDOT encourages drivers to check COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner App for real-time road conditions before traveling through mountain areas.

Frequently asked questions

Q: When do Colorado chain laws end?
Chain laws run through May 31.

Q: Are truck drivers required to carry chains?
Commercial motor vehicles must carry chains or approved traction devices during the enforcement period.

Q: Can winter conditions still occur in spring?
Yes, CDOT states that snowstorms can still occur throughout the remainder of spring.

Q: What route was impacted by the recent pileup?
Eastbound Interstate 70 in Clear Creek County was closed following the crash.

Q: Where can drivers check real-time updates?
Drivers can use COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner App.

Colorado chain laws remain in place through May 31, with recent crashes highlighting continued weather-related risks on routes such as Interstate 70.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last Updated: April 23, 2026

Source: The Trucker

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The technology enables CDOT staff to close the interstate directly from their operations center, eliminating the need to dispatch crews to block off lanes in person. Digital message boards and lane-use signs will display red Xs when the highway is closed, giving drivers immediate and clear instructions.

John Kronholm, CDOT resident engineer, explained how this will speed up safety operations. “Now, with this remote closure system, it will tell people that the highway is closed and we’ll be able to fill that gap in time in between when we really want the interstate closed and when we can get someone there to physically staff it,” Kronholm told 9News.

Previously, a closure required state patrol or CDOT employees to drive to specific areas along I-70 before shutting it down. By comparison, the new system is expected to save 30 to 45 minutes, giving road crews faster access to treat pavement and reopen travel sooner once conditions improve.

Officials are also reminding drivers that ignoring closure signs carries penalties. Motorists who continue past warnings and enter restricted areas will face tickets.

According to CDOT, the remote closure system will be ready for use during the upcoming winter season.

For drivers preparing for snow-covered routes, Land Line’s updated chain law guide will be released in the October edition of Land Line Magazine, offering a comprehensive look at requirements across North America.

Source: Land Line Media

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Proposed Legislation for Chain Assistance

Colorado’s Senate Bill 69, currently under review, would introduce a permitting process allowing private companies to provide chain-assist services at designated roadside locations. This service would include the installation and removal of tire chains or alternative traction devices for a service fee.

If passed, the bill tasks the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) with issuing these permits. To prevent monopolies at specific locations, the bill specifies that CDOT should avoid granting sole operation rights to one company, ensuring competition at each site whenever possible.

The Goal Behind the Legislation

The proposed law aims to increase compliance with the state’s more stringent chain requirements, which took effect last year. These rules mandate that from Sept. 1 to May 31, all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) exceeding 16,000 pounds carry four snow chains or alternate traction devices when traveling on specified roads.

Roads Impacted by Chain Laws

Since the updated regulations took effect on Aug. 7, 2024, trucks traveling on the following Colorado routes are required to carry appropriate traction equipment during the mandate period:

• I-70 west of milepost 259 (Morrison).

• Colorado Highway 9 from milepost 63 to milepost 97 (Frisco to Fairplay).

• Route 40 west of milepost 256 (Empire).

• US Route 50 west of milepost 225 (Salida).

• US Route 160 west of milepost 250 (Morrison).

• US Route 550 between milepost 0 and 130 (State line south of Durango to Montrose).

Restrictions on Left Lane Use

The law also enforces left-lane restrictions on trucks in certain areas, enhancing safety on challenging stretches of highway. These areas include:

• Glenwood Canyon

• Dowd Junction, the curvy section on 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

Source: Overdrive

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