Studded tires cause at least $11 million damage each year.
(SALEM, Ore.) - Forecasts from the National Weather Service predict a slight rise in temperatures statewide beginning late this coming weekend, which may not provide enough time for motorists traveling this weekend to remove their studded tires by April 1st.
ODOT is extending the studded tire season through Saturday, April 5th. The Washington State Department of Transportation has made the same decision.
ODOT is not planning to extend the studded tire season past April 5th; motorists should plan to remove their studded tires by then.
Motorists who are not traveling through the mountains this next week should remove their studded tires early to avoid the rush. Drivers with studded tires on their vehicles in Oregon after April 5th can be charged with a Class C traffic violation, which carries a maximum $145 fine.
ODOT encourages drivers to consider other types of traction tires or chains because studded tires cause at least $11 million damage each year on city streets, county roads and state highways. Other types of traction tires are available.
These traction tires meet Rubber Manufacturers Association standards for use in severe snow conditions and carry a special symbol on the tire sidewall showing a three-peaked mountain and snowflake. Research shows these tires provide better traction than studded tires when used on bare pavement.
Oregon Studded Tire Season Extended through SaturdaySalem-News.com