This means you’re using damaging tires for conditions that rarely happen. That’s why Washington state has a law that only allows studded tire use from Nov. 1 to March 31. There’s no exception to this law, and if you use studded tires before or after these dates, you could receive a fine.
When can you put studded tires on in Spokane?
Studded tires are legal in Washington from Nov. 1 to March 31. The Washington State Department of Transportation encourages drivers to remove studded tires prior to the deadline, if possible. Studded tires damage pavement, so removing them promptly after winter has passed helps preserve state roadways.
Do you really need studded tires?
If you drive more on icy roads than on snowy ones in winter, studded tires are the choice for you. Studded tires are especially suitable if you live near the coast, where roads tend to be icy during the winter. Non-studded winter tires are a good choice for snowy roads.
Do I need winter tires in Washington state?
Washington allows studded tires from November 1 through March 31 only. There is no individual exception to the studded tire dates, and violators face a $136 fine. The WSDOT may extend the deadline if forecasts indicate that severe winter weather conditions are likely across much of the state.
When can I put studded tires on in Washington State?
By law, studded tires are only legal for use in Washington state from Nov. 1 through March 31. This applies to all vehicles in Washington, even those traveling from other states, and no personal exemptions or waivers exist to allow for earlier use of studded tires.
Do I need winter tires in Spokane?
The snowy and icy conditions common in this area during winter mean you do need snow tires in Spokane. However, you’ll find a variety of options available, including studded tires, traction tires, snow tires, and chains.
How long do studded tires last?
The average life of a studded tire is 40,000 miles. However, some manufacturers claim that you can get four seasons of winter from the same studded tires. According to the US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, the distance, a normal studded tire can cover is 13,500 miles per year.
Do studded tires help on black ice?
Truth be told, the only way you can obtain a semblance of safety while driving on black ice is with studded snow tires. Studded tires are like your average snow tire, featuring deep grooves, lots of sidewall, and a rubber compound designed for sub-30-degree temperatures (in Fahrenheit).
How fast can you drive with studded tires?
Because it takes some time for the lubricant to evaporate and the tread rubber to compress around the stud, studded tires require a special break-in period. Relatively slow driving (less than 31 mph/50 km/h) without hard acceleration or braking is recommended for the first 62 miles (100 kilometers).
How much does it cost to stud a tire?
On average, new wheel lug studs cost $4 to $12. This cost does not include labor (which would likely set you back *$61 to $77). If only one stud is missing or damaged, you can drive it safely when traveling a short distance to a repair shop or auto parts dealer.
Are studded tires outlawed in Washington State?
Studded tires are legal in Washington from November 1 – March 31 and any motorists caught using them outside of those dates could incur a fine from law enforcement. Studded tires in Idaho have been legal since October 1. Studded tires do not satisfy state chain requirements.
Can I use regular tires in the snow?
Many all-season tires do great in the rain and bare pavement year-round. While a set of all-season tires can offer some traction in light snow and the occasional winter storm, they’re not designed for deep snow, ice, and cold weather (when temperatures stay below ~45º F).
Is it illegal to drive with snow on your car in Washington State?
Washington allows police to stop drivers for traveling with accumulated ice on their vehicles, but the offense does not carry a fine. It’s not a state law in Washington but as winter and snow start flying, it might be a nice thing to do and be a good citizen keeping your vehicle clear of snow and ice.
Are studded tires better than winter tires?
If you drive more on icy roads than on snowy ones in winter, studded tyres are the choice for you. Studded tyres are especially suitable if you live near the coast, where roads tend to be icy during the winter. Non-studded winter tyres are a good choice for snowy roads.
What is the fine for studded tires in Washington State?
$136
Washington drivers have to remove their studded tires by the end of the day March 31. Starting April 1, those who still have the tires on can face potential fines of $136. The law applies to all drivers in the state, including visitors.
Do studded snow tires really work?
Studded tires provide the best traction you can get, even when you’re encountering ice or packed snow. Studs are lightweight, small metal spikes that are staggered across the tread. They help break through packed snow and ice-covered roads to give you better traction.
What is the snowiest month in Spokane?
December
The month with the most snow in Spokane is December, with an average snowfall of 4.3 inches. The snowless period of the year lasts for 8.1 months, from March 9 to November 13. The least snow falls around July 17, with an average total accumulation of 0.0 inches.
Does Spokane get a lot of snow?
On average, Spokane gets 171 sunny days per year. Winters are cold and cloudy but, we get an average of 44 inches of snow every year. As for rain, Spokane gets an average of 17 inches per year. Our temperatures vary throughout the year from 26°F to 88°F and are rarely below 11°F or above 97°F.
Does Spokane get all 4 seasons?
We do not have 4 seasons.
Are studded tires good on the highway?
Tires that are studded by the manufacturer are undoubtedly of better quality. They provide superior performance, increased durability and a quieter ride. Because of their particular shape that optimizes contact with the road, the studs in those tires offer a smoother ride and enhanced traction.
Can I add studs to my tires?
Only new tires that have never been driven on can be studded. Tires already driven on cannot be studded nor re-studded. This practice risks serious tire damage resulting from incorrect stud lengths and/or unseen debris (sand, cinders, salt or stones) becoming trapped under the stud in the molded hole.