| News |
|
|
 |
| 11/28/2005 |
|
For More Information Contact:
Julianne Repman, Public Information Representative, 541-388-6224
Heidi Hiaasen, ODOT Project Communications, 541-388-6178
ODOT Reminds Motorists to Carry Chains
Chains required for travel on several Oregon Highways
The Oregon Department of Transportation reminds motorists to check TripCheck.com or call 5-1-1 for updated highway conditions and chain requirements before hitting the roads this winter.
At this hour, chains are required for travel across Santiam Pass for vehicles under 10,000 GVW and not towing. Traction tires are allowed in place of chains on vehicles under 10,000 GVW and not towing. Vehicles towing must use chains.
Additionally, chains are required on vehicles towing or over 10,000 GVW on OR 31 near Silver Lake, OR 140 at the Quartz Mountain Summit, and US 97 near Chiloquin. For a complete list of statewide chain requirements, please visit TripCheck.com or call 5-1-1.
There are times when you may be required to use chains on snowy or icy roads. It’s important to learn how to install your chains before bad weather strikes.
Chaining up is good for both you and other drivers, especially on mountain roads. Travelers putting on chains at the last minute can block the highways, making it hard for crews to sand and plow. By putting your chains on early, you’ll do your part to keep traffic moving.
It’s a lot easier to put chains on for the first time when you don’t have to struggle to read the instructions alongside a snowy road. Practice installing your chains at home when the weather is fair. Then when road conditions require chains, you’ll already know how to put them on.
Here are some tips on chaining up and driving with chains:
· Don’t wait until you lose control of your vehicle before chaining up.
· Pull over to a safe and level area to install or remove chains.
· Don’t lie with your legs pointed toward the travel lane to install or remove chains.
· Take along a waterproof tarp or plastic sheet to help keep you dry.
· Keep children and pets safe in your car to avoid distraction and injury.
· Check your vehicle operator’s manual for the right type and size of chains to use. Then follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
· Ensure chains are the proper size. Do not deflate tires to install chains.
· Pull over in a safe place and retighten your tire chains after you have driven a short distance.
· Pull over and stop immediately if any part of a tire chain fails or comes loose.
· Do not drive faster than 30 miles per hour when using chains. Speed up and slow down slowly. Avoid spinning or locking your wheels.
· Remember: you can slide even with chains, so drive carefully and slowly. It’s the Way to Go!
|
|
|
|
