Full Breakdown
Colorado Implements New Traction Law for Rental Cars to Enhance Winter Safety
11/24/2025, 4:39:05 AM
Overview of the New Traction Law
In an effort to improve safety for drivers unfamiliar with Colorado's winter conditions, the state has enacted a new traction law that mandates rental car companies to inform customers about state traction regulations. This law, known as Senate Bill 69, was signed earlier this year and aims to reduce the number of accidents and delays caused by rental vehicles on snowy roads, particularly along the I-70 corridor.
Key Provisions of the Law
Under the new law, rental car companies must notify customers of Colorado's traction laws through one of three methods, including visible notices inside the vehicle. For instance, Enterprise has announced plans to hang tags on the rearview mirrors of their rental cars at Denver International Airport (DIA) to indicate whether the vehicle is equipped with appropriate tires for mountain driving. If the vehicle does not meet the required standards, customers will have the option to return to the rental counter for a compliant vehicle.
The law specifies that passenger vehicles must have tires with a tread depth of at least 3/16ths of an inch, and they must be winter, mud and snow, or all-weather tires. Drivers whose vehicles do not comply are required to use tire chains or other approved traction devices. Failure to comply can result in fines exceeding $130, and blocking the roadway due to improper equipment may incur fines over $650.
Background and Context
The impetus for this law stems from recurring issues on Colorado roadways during winter weather, with rental cars frequently cited as a major cause of delays and accidents. For example, during the Presidents' Day weekend, numerous spinouts and crashes left drivers stranded for hours along the I-70 corridor. According to State Senator Dylan Roberts, one of the bill's sponsors, many of those cited for traction violations were out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with local regulations.
Criticism and Opposition
While the law aims to enhance safety, it does not require rental companies to provide tire chains or alternative traction devices, which some critics argue could leave drivers unprepared in severe weather conditions. AAA Regional Director Skyler McKinley emphasized that drivers are obligated to comply with state laws, regardless of rental agreements, suggesting that rental companies may need to adapt their policies to align with these new requirements.
Official Statements and Responses
Senator Roberts expressed optimism about the law's potential impact, stating, “I think that this will make a difference in this upcoming winter and for many years to come.” McKinley added that the law could incentivize rental companies to better equip their fleets for Colorado's driving conditions, ultimately reducing the economic impact of road closures, which can cost the state approximately $2 million for every hour the I-70 corridor is closed.
What's Next
As winter approaches, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will continue to monitor weather conditions and activate chain and traction laws as necessary. Last winter, these laws were activated 530 times along the I-70 corridor, highlighting the need for compliance among all drivers, including those in rental vehicles. The hope is that the new traction law will lead to safer travel conditions and fewer incidents on Colorado's winter roads.
