Winter Driving Tips Every Colorado Driver Should Know
Anyone who’s weathered a Colorado winter knows something about our somewhat unpredictable climate, from abrupt heat waves to jarring temperature drops, sudden gales and blizzards, ice storms followed by flashmelts — and sometimes all of the above in one day. Like all winter sports, driving in the Centennial State’s colder months takes preparation, savvy, and patience. Here are some useful driving tips for getting safely through the storms ahead.
1. Know your vehicle — and its limitations.
With the advent of antilock brakes and traction control, many of the old rules about winter driving, such as pumping your brakes in a skid, no longer apply. But drivers still need to know what kind of technology they’re equipped with, and what it can and can’t do. In the depths of winter, many mountain roads shouldn’t be attempted without all-wheel drive, high clearance, and/or tire chains; and, contrary to some drivers’ beliefs, even all-wheel drive can be useless if you happen to be on a friction-free stretch of ice.
2. Bring the right tools.
At the very least, you should have an ice scraper and snow brush, proper winter clothing, and cell phone (no texting, please) along for the ride. For long-range trips, blankets, food and water, an emergency kit, any needed medications, and a snow shovel should be on board, too, and keep plenty of gas in the tank to help keep the fuel line from freezing.
3. Brush up on visibility.
Slippery roads aren’t the only problem. A major hazard in many winter driving situations is limited visibility, thanks to blowing snow and the icing of windshields and wiper blades (which should be replaced every year). Incredibly, drivers often compound the problem by not bothering to clear their windows (particularly their back windows) before hitting the road, figuring the defroster will eventually take care of it. Taking a few extra minutes to scrape and defrost before setting out greatly increases your prospects of being able to see what’s going on around you and avoid a crash.
4. Don’t be a statistic.
Cars that offer keyless ignitions and remote starting features have compounded a common problem — people leaving cars to “warm up” in closed garages, which can lead to potentially fatal levels of carbon monoxide overpowering drivers or other family members. Never leave your car idling in a closed garage — or, for that matter, idling unattended in your driveway, which could be in violation of local “puffer” laws and encourage car thieves.
5. For serious winter driving, get serious winter tires.
All-season tires are intended to competently handle a variety of middling road conditions. But “all-season” doesn’t mean “all-winter.” If you expect to be routinely facing extreme winter conditions, such as heavily snow-packed roads, you should talk to your tire store about tires that are specifically designed to offer superior traction in snow and ice. That means having to switch tires in the summer in order to extend the life of your winter grippers, but if you are facing months of serious snowfall and frosty nights, it could be worth it.
6. Easy does it.
In icy winter conditions, accelerating, braking, and maneuvering through traffic should all be done at a gentler pace, with frugal use of the gas pedal and the brake. Don’t gun it from a stoplight, unless you like spinning your wheels futilely. AAA recommendsthat “the normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds,” to give you more time and distance to brake if needed. Going slower takes longer, but it greatly increases your chance of actually getting somewhere.
7. Use your momentum.
It’s best to avoid flooring it to get up a hill or jamming on the brake going downhill; if you let the car’s own weight help to regulate your speed going up and slow you coming down, there’s less chance of a skid. It’s also important to turn off the cruise control in wet or snowy conditions, since it can cause surges of acceleration at inconvenient times and lead to hydroplaning or worse.
8. Avoid unnecessary trips.
If the weather alerts are screaming about an impending blizzard, ask yourself one question: Is this trip really necessary? Sometimes the safest option in extreme weather conditions is to put another log on the fire and wait for the plows to make things a bit more bearable.
Don’t Pass That Plow: Colorado Winter Driving Rules
During the fall, winter, and even early spring months, winter driving conditions remain a fact of life in Colorado’s high country. In recent years, the state has made some significant changes in laws related to winter driving, changes designed to make a trip to the mountains (or even across town) safer for everyone.
Here are a few tips to help get you through the ice and snow while we’re all waiting for summer to arrive.
Snow Removal Equipment: What Drivers Need to Know
Colorado’s winter road crews use a variety of snow removal equipment to keep highways and streets passable. In addition to standard snow plows, drivers should be aware of:
- De-icing trucks that spray liquid de-icer to prevent ice buildup.
- Sanders that spread traction materials to reduce slipperiness.
- Rotary plows that cut through deep snowdrifts and push excess snow off the road.
When you see this equipment in action, slow down, increase your following distance, and be patient. These vehicles move slower than traffic but are essential for keeping roads safe.
Snow Plows and Road Safety: Understanding Their Role in Winter Driving
Snow plows are a critical part of Colorado’s winter road maintenance, working around the clock to keep highways and local roads clear of snow and ice. These heavy-duty vehicles operate in hazardous conditions and require extra caution from drivers. When encountering a snow plow:
- Maintain a safe following distance of at least 3-4 car lengths.
- Be aware that plows create wind gusts and snow clouds that can cause sudden whiteout conditions.
- Never pass a snow plow on the right, as all snow, ice, and debris are pushed in that direction.
- Watch for warning lights and signs on snow removal equipment, indicating slow-moving vehicles.
Respecting snow plows and their work zones ensures a safer drive for everyone on the road.
The Tandem Snowplow Law
A law passed in 2019, House Bill 19-1265, increased the penalties for motorists who pass snowplows that are operating in tandem or “echelon” formation — in other words, when two or more plows are staggered diagonally to plow multiple lanes at the same time. It’s now a Class A traffic offense to pass a snowplow when the truck is displaying its lights and operating in tandem. Doing so could not only result in a fine and points on your driver’s license, but it’s extremely dangerous; you could encounter whiteout conditions and ridges of snow on the road if you try to maneuver around plows at work.
Whether in tandem or not, snowplows should always be given a wide berth. Make sure to stay at least 3-4 car lengths behind an operating plow, to avoid de-icer and sand hitting your vehicle. Be prepared for sudden stops. And never pass a plow on the right; they are designed to push all the snow, slush, rocks and debris in that direction.
The Mountain Traction Law
The Colorado Department of Transportation has long had the authority to require that certain vehicles carry special traction equipment, such as tire chains, during weather emergencies. What’s different about Colorado’s mountain traction law, which went into effect in August 2019, is that it imposes a season-long requirement for drivers on a 126-mile stretch of the I-70 mountain corridor, from Dotsero to Morrison. From September through May, I-70 drivers are required to have either snow tires, tires designated for mud and snow (“M+S” tires), or four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles. In addition, the minimum amount of tread required for tires on snowy roads across the state is now 3/16 of an inch, up from a previous 1/8-inch requirement.
Although the data isn’t in yet, the traction law is expected to help ease congestion by discouraging those with bald tires or two-wheel drive from driving in conditions for which they are not equipped. During severe storms, CDOT can also require passenger vehicles to put on chains, just like the big rigs. The penalty for ignoring traction requirements can be steep, from a basic fine of $130 to one of more than $650 if a motorist without sufficient traction gets stuck and blocks the roadway.
Snow Tires: A Must-Have for Safe Winter Driving
Although often required by Colorado’s Mountain Traction Law during winter months, snow tires are a critical component to help you drive safely in winter weather. But what makes snow tires different from standard tires?
- Softer rubber compounds allow better grip on cold, icy roads.
- Deeper tread patterns enhance traction and help channel slush and snow away from the tire surface.
- Studded options provide extra grip on packed snow and ice.
All drivers traveling in high-altitude areas should ensure their vehicles are equipped with the right tires. If you drive a two-wheel-drive vehicle, investing in high-quality snow tires can significantly reduce the risk that you lose traction and cause a crash.
Keeping Warm and Safe in the High Country
Whether you’re commuting to work or heading into the mountains for a weekend getaway, having a well-equipped vehicle is crucial for winter driving safety. Here are some essentials to keep in your car:
- Snow Brush & Ice Scraper – Keep windows and headlights clear for maximum visibility.
- Jumper Cables – Cold weather can drain your car battery quickly.
- Tire Chains or Traction Mats – In case you get stuck in deep snow or on an icy patch.
- Portable Shovel – Helpful for digging out of snowdrifts.
- Emergency Blanket & Warm Clothing – In case you need to wait for assistance in freezing temperatures.
- Flashlight & Extra Batteries – Visibility can be limited during winter storms.
- Non-Perishable Snacks & Water – Essential if you get stranded for an extended period.
- First Aid Kit – Useful for any minor injuries while on the road.
By keeping these items in your vehicle, you can better handle unexpected delays or emergencies during winter travel.
CDOT’s Winter Wise campaign also recommends:
- Avoid traveling during peak times. The Goi70 website provides weekend travel forecasts to help you plan your trip.
- When possible, use public transit for a safe, hassle-free ride. Bustang offers regular service to popular mountain destinations and Bustang Outrider makes a circuit in rural areas.
- Don’t be alarmed if you encounter a brief delay at the Eisenhower Tunnel; CDOT’s safety metering program helps control traffic low, reduces accidents, and keeps the tunnel clear for emergency vehicles.
- Be patient and give yourself more time than you think you need.
Understanding Black Ice: The Hidden Danger on Colorado Roads
One of the most dangerous hazards of winter driving is black ice—a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that forms on roads when temperatures drop suddenly. It is especially common on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas where the road surface cools faster than in open areas.
How to Handle Black Ice
- Stay calm and do not panic. Sudden movements can cause you to lose control.
- Ease off the accelerator. Gradually reduce your speed instead of slamming on the brakes.
- Steer gently. If you start sliding, steer in the direction you want to go rather than making sharp corrections.
- Increase following distance. Other vehicles may also struggle with traction, so allow extra space.
By staying alert and driving cautiously, you can minimize the risks associated with black ice and other winter road hazards.
Driving in Whiteout Conditions: What to Do When Visibility Drops
Heavy snowfall and strong winds can create whiteout conditions, making it nearly impossible to see beyond a few feet in front of your car. If you find yourself in a whiteout, follow these guidelines:
- Slow down immediately but avoid sudden braking that could cause skidding.
- Turn on your headlights and fog lights to improve visibility for yourself and others.
- Follow the taillights of the vehicle ahead at a safe distance, but avoid following too closely.
- If visibility drops to near zero, consider pulling over to a safe location with hazard lights on.
- Do not stop in the middle of the road. Other drivers may not see you in time to avoid a collision.
Being prepared for extreme weather conditions will help you stay safe and reduce the likelihood of accidents in heavy snow.
Dangerous I-70 Truckers
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