Effective Friday, February 2nd, 2024, 6 a.m., weight restrictions will be imposed and enforced on all state trunkline highways for the entire state of Michigan, including the upper peninsula.

State trunkline highways typically carry M, I, or US designations. Weight restriction information and updates may be obtained by calling 1-800-787-8960. For companies located in Canada or New Jersey, information may be obtained by calling 517-335-0023.

– On routes designated as “All Season Routes” (green or gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map) there will be no reduction in legal axle weight.

– On routes designated as “Seasonal” (solid or dashed red on the MDOT Truck Operators Map) there will be a weight reduction of 25% for rigid pavements and 35% for flexible pavements.

Extended permits will be valid for oversize only in the weight restricted area.

Single trip permits will not be issued for overweight loads or loads exceeding 14 feet in width, 11 axles and 150 feet in overall length in the weight restricted area.

Detailed Weight Restriction information may be obtained by linking to www.michigan.gov/truckers.

Please refer to the MDOT Truck Operator’s Map for route designations.

Spring Weight Restrictions:
https://mdotjboss.state.mi.us/APSWB/SWBHome.htm?bulletin=weight 

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will end winter load increases in the SOUTH, SOUTHEAST and METRO frost zones Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:01 AM.

Seasonal load limit zones and restricted routes can be found on the MnDOT load limits map.

Start and end dates and other load limit information are shown at mndot.gov/loadlimits.

Overweight permits for more than 80,000 pound gross vehicle weight will continue and new permits will be issued if all axle and group weights are legal (axle weight limits).

MnDOT will report start and end dates on its 24-hour automated message center at 1-800-723-6543 for the U.S. and Canada, and locally at 651-366-5400 for the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

For questions about legal axle weight during SLR; Gross Vehicle Weight Schedule, call: Minnesota Department of Public Safety State Patrol – Commercial Vehicle Enforcement 651-350-2000

For questions about oversize/overweight loads/permitting call: Minnesota Department of Transportation Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations –
Oversize/Overweight Permits 651-296-6000 Or email:  ofcvopermits.dot@state.mn.us

All changes are made with a minimum three calendar-day notice.

WisDOT announced: The Frozen Road Period begins in Zones 3 and 4 on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 12:01 AM CST. The Frozen Road Period will begin in Zone 5 when conditions warrant. The Frozen Road Period was already in effect in Zones 1 and 2.

The frozen road law allows vehicles hauling abrasives or salt for highway winter maintenance and certain forest products to carry more weight. The seasonal weight restriction program is one way to protect Wisconsin’s investments in roads.

The department maintains an interactive map for seasonal weight restrictions, which shows the frozen roads boundaries, Class II roads and posted roads.

Behind the declaration

WisDOT and county highway personnel monitor temperature forecasts, along with frost tubes – liquid-filled devices under pavement – to help determine when roads are adequately frozen to accommodate heavier loads.

The declaration is issued once the ground under highway pavement is frozen to a depth of at least 18-inches, allowing the maximum gross weight for trucks hauling logs or salt and sand for maintaining roads in winter to go up to 98,000 pounds on vehicles with a minimum of five axles (from the normal 80,000 pounds). Special permits for hauling the increased weights are not required in Zone 1 and Zone 2; however, vehicles must be legally licensed at 80,000 pounds to handle the increased weights. The higher weight limits do not apply to county or local roads unless authorized by the local agency having maintenance authority. Also, higher weights may not be transported on any highways or bridges specifically posted for lower weight limits.

More information on overweight permits can be found on the WisDOT website by searching for oversize/overweight permits. Haulers with specific questions can contact WisDOT’s Oversize/Overweight Permits Unit at (608) 266-7320. A recorded message with general information on road restrictions is available by calling (608) 266-8417.

Winter weather and extreme temperatures in some areas have affect some stores’ DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) supply.

Of the Pilot, Flying J and Mr. Fuel locations with supply issues, DEF is the one product mostly affected, and diesel supplies seem to be good. The below stores are being stocked with bottles of DEF inside the locations.

The Pilot Flying J app will reflect real-time status on store supplies.



Our partners at ATBS put together a list of things truckers can do before the end of the year to help them minimize their tax bill for 2023.

Even if you weren’t an owner-operator for all of 2023, these things can still apply.

Buy Assets – ONLY if You Need Them

If you are in need of a new truck or piece of equipment for your business, it may be worth purchasing it before the year ends. Purchasing equipment for your business could allow you to reduce your tax liability because of the depreciation rules.

The tax law allows your business to take an immediate first-year deduction on any asset purchased during the year. This is because any qualified property that was purchased and placed in service between September 27, 2017, and December 31, 2022, could have been depreciated by 100% of the cost of the property. If the tax law doesn’t change, then starting in 2023, the bonus depreciation goes down by an additional 20% each year. This means that in 2023 bonus depreciation will be 80%, 2024 will be 60%, 2025 will be 40%, 2026 will be 20%, and in 2027 there will be no bonus depreciation. The cost of the depreciated piece of property will be recognized as an expense and lower your taxable income.

But, before you go out and make a big purchase in order to take advantage of the new depreciation rules, there are a few things to consider.

1. This deduction shouldn’t motivate you to purchase things that you might want but won’t help your business make more money.
2. A higher deduction in the present means you will likely have a lower deduction in the future. If your business is growing, this can lead to problems when your business moves into a higher tax bracket.
3. If an asset is sold for more than its adjusted basis*, then tax law states any excess depreciation that was deducted on the prior year’s returns (up to the amount of the sale price) is considered taxable income. This means if you end up selling an asset for more than its adjusted basis, tax law requires the IRS to take back the depreciation deduction and the recaptured depreciation profits will be taxed as income.

Calculate Your Per Diem Deduction

Per diem is the tax deduction that the IRS allows to substantiate ordinary and necessary business expenses paid or incurred while traveling away from home. In simpler terms, it’s a deduction for meals and incidental expenses for the days you are on the road and away from home for a period of time that requires sleep or rest to complete your job duties. This deduction was eliminated for employees also known as company drivers under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) but remains a deductible business expense for self-employed individuals or owner-operators.

The current rate for 2023 (last updated October 1, 2021) is $69 per full day and $51.75 per partial day. Temporarily for 2021 and 2022, the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Relief Act of 2020, allowed a 100% deduction on Per Diem. Starting in 2023, the deduction will go back to 80%.

Taxpayers are required to keep track of their days on the road in order to claim the per diem deduction. ATBS recommends keeping a per diem calendar where you mark an “X” for full days and a “/” on partial days to keep tracking per diem simple. To prove your per diem, you will also need to provide DOT ELD logs with times, dates, and locations.

To get a better understanding of Per Diem, check out our Seizing the Per Diem Tax Break article.

Consider Getting Taxed as an S-Corporation

Consider setting your business up as an LLC and filing form 2553 to elect to be taxed as an S-Corporation. There are some advantages to filing a 1120S, as long as you net enough earnings throughout the year. ATBS recommends not making this election unless your net earnings are consistently exceeding $70,000-$75,000 per year. At that point, tax savings will be greater than the costs to set up and run the corporation.

As an S-Corp, you can minimize your self-employment tax by paying yourself a reasonable salary and withdrawing additional funds as distributions. Unlike a sole proprietorship, not all income (distributed and undistributed) from an S corporation is subject to self-employment tax. The self-employment tax rate is approximately 15% on all earnings from self-employment activity.

Here is an example of how you can lower your self-employment taxable income when set up as an S-corporation. If you earned $60,000 of net income over the year, and pay yourself a reasonable salary of $40,000, you only have to pay self-employment tax on the $40,000. 15% (the self-employment tax rate) of $40,000 is $6,000. This means that you are now only paying $6,000 of self-employment tax rather than $9,000 (15% of $60,000 is $9,000). Paying yourself a salary that is not considered “reasonable” may send a red flag to the IRS that could potentially trigger an audit.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE

Updated December 2023

Winter is right around the corner, which means higher elevation areas are already getting snow. So it’s an important time for truck drivers to familiarize themselves with the chain laws in the states they normally run.

Alabama

The use of tire chains shall be permitted upon any vehicle when required for safety because of snow, rain, or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to slide or skid.

Alaska

You are not permitted to use chains from May 1 through September 15 when north of 60 North Latitude.

You are not permitted to use chains from April 15 through September 30 when south of 60 North Latitude.

If you are operating a vehicle on Sterling Highway, you are not permitted to use chains from May 1 through September 15.

You will need to obtain a special permit from the Department of Administration if you would like to use chains in one of these prohibited zones.

Arizona

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Arkansas

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

California

California requires drivers to stop and put on chains when highway signs indicate chains are required. Drivers can be cited by California Highway Patrol and fined if they don’t. Typically, drivers have about a mile between “chains required” signs and the checkpoint to install chains. During winter weather, it takes at least eight chains for the standard tractor-trailer configuration to comply with the regulations.

During the winter months, there might be traction chain controls in the mountain areas. When these are established you will see signs posted along the highway. These signs will also include the type of requirement, which will include one of the following:

• R1 – Chains, traction devices or snow tires are required on the drive axle of all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles.
• R2 – Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels.
• R3 – Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions.

Colorado

Commercial vehicles and trucks must have chains. Vehicles without chains can often lose traction, causing traffic delays and sometimes road closures. For the safety of the traveling public, it’s critical to use chains to be in compliance with Colorado’s chain law.

From September 1 through May 31, all trucks must carry enough chains on I-70 when traveling between mile marker 259 outside Golden, CO and mile marker 133 in Dotsero, CO. If you get stopped and do not have chains on your truck, the fine is $50 plus a surcharge of $16.

If you do not put chains on your truck when the law is in effect, the fine is $500 plus a $79 surcharge. If you do not put chains on and you end up blocking the highway, then the fine will increase to $1,000 plus a $156 surcharge.

Colorado has two different types of chain laws:

• Level 1 – Single-axle combination commercial vehicles must chain up. Trucks must have all four drive tires in chains. When level 1 is in effect, all other commercial vehicles must have snow tires or chains.
• Level 2 – When level 2 is in effect, all commercial vehicles are required to chain up the four drive tires.

Connecticut

Chains are permitted only from Nov. 15 through April 30. The chains can not be damaging to the highway’s surface.

Delaware

You are permitted to use chains on highways from October 15 through April 15 “for safety because of snow, ice or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to slide or skid.”

State officials can restrict travel on highways during emergency situations.

Georgia

At any time the Georgia Department of Transportation may close or limit access to certain highways during inclement weather. If this occurs, signage will be placed to inform drivers that chains are required in order to proceed.

For commercial vehicles, chains must be placed on the outermost drive tires.

Idaho

Officials with the Idaho Department of Transportation can determine that it is unsafe to drive over Lookout Pass and Fourth of July Pass on I-90, and Lolo Pass on Highway 12. If it is deemed unsafe, then you will be required to chain up a minimum of one tire on each drive axle and one axle at or near the rear. Advance notices of chain requirements will be posted by Idaho DOT.

Illinois

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Indiana

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Iowa

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Kansas

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Kentucky

No person shall use on a highway not covered with ice a vehicle with a chained wheel unless the wheel rests upon an ice-shoe at least 6 inches wide. When chains are used on rubber-tired vehicles, the cross chains shall be not more than three-fourths (3/4) of an inch in thickness or diameter, and shall be spaced not more than ten inches apart, around the circumference of the tires.

Louisiana

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Maine

Vehicles cannot have tires with metal studs, wires, spikes or other metal protruding from the tire tread from May 1 through Oct. 1. Other than that the use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Maryland

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts prohibits the use of studded tires and chains between May 1 and Nov. 1 without a permit. Tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Michigan

The use of chains is allowed for safety when snow, ice, or other condition are present. If chains are used, they must not come in direct contact with the roads surface.

Minnesota

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Mississippi

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Missouri

No person shall operate any motor vehicle upon any road or highway of this state between the first day of April and the first day of November while the motor vehicle is equipped with tires containing metal or carbide studs. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Montana

If the Montana Department of Transportation determines that highways are too dangerous for travel, they may establish the following recommendations:

• Chains or other approved traction devices are recommended for drive wheels.
• Chains or other approved traction devices are required for drive wheels.
• Chains required for driver wheels.

Nebraska

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Nevada

It is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle, whether it is an emergency vehicle or otherwise, without traction devices, tire chains or snow tires upon any street or highway, under icy or snowy conditions, when the highway is marked or posted with signs for the requirement of traction devices, chains or snow tires.

If a highway in this State is marked or posted with signs requiring the use of traction devices, tire chains or snow tires, a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles must be equipped with:

• Traction devices, tire chains or snow tires if it has a gross weight or combined gross weight of 10,000 pounds or less.
• Tire chains if it has a gross weight or combined gross weight of more than 10,000 pounds.

New Hampshire

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

New Jersey

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

New Mexico

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

New York

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

North Carolina

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

North Dakota

North Dakota allows metal studs within 1/16 inch beyond tread from Oct. 15 through April 15. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Ohio

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Oklahoma

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Oregon

Oregon’s law applies to all highways in the state. Signs will tell you when you are required to carry chains and when you are required to use them. You will need to have six chains on hand to comply in Oregon.

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Pennsylvania

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Rhode Island

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

South Carolina

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

South Dakota

The South Dakota DOT has the authority to restrict travel on roads. Signs will alert truckers to these restrictions. The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Tennessee

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Texas

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Utah

When any designated highway is so restricted, no vehicle shall be allowed or permitted the use of the highway during the period between Oct. 1 and April 30, or when conditions warrant due to adverse, or hazardous weather or roadway conditions, as determined by the Utah Department of Transportation, unless:

An operator of a commercial vehicle with four or more drive wheels, other than a bus, shall affix tire chains to at least four of the drive-wheel tires.

Vermont

Vermont has a traffic committee that will decide if use of chains will be required. The regulation mandates that the “advance notice shall be given to the traveling public through signage and, whenever possible, through public service announcements.” This language also mandates that adequate space be provided to chain up. Vehicles with semitrailers or trailers that have a tandem-drive axle towing a trailer shall have chains:

• On two tires on each side of the primary drive axle, or if both axles of the vehicle are powered by the drive line, one tire on each side of each drive axle; and
• On one tire of the front axle and one tire on one of the rear axles of the trailer.

Virginia

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Washington

West Virginia

The use of chains is allowed for safety when snow, ice, or other condition are present. If chains are used, they must not come in direct contact with the roads surface.

Wisconsin

The use of chains is allowed for safety when snow, ice, or other condition are present. If chains are used, they must not come in direct contact with the roads surface.

Wyoming

Wyoming’s chain law includes two levels of restrictions that can be implemented on specific highway sections when conditions warrant. Wyoming’s chain law includes two levels of restrictions that can be implemented on specific highway sections when conditions warrant.

Level 1: When conditions are hazardous, travel can be restricted to vehicles equipped with tire chains, vehicles with adequate snow tires, or all-wheel-drive vehicles.

Level 2: When conditions are extremely hazardous, travel can be restricted to vehicles equipped with tire chains or all-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with adequate mud and snow or all-weather-rated tires.

Under Level 2, commercial vehicles must have chains on at least two of the drive wheels at opposite ends of the same drive axle.

Do not stop in the driving lane to install or remove chains!

Penalties for violations:

• $250 for violating the travel restriction; or
• $750 for a violation that results in a highway closure.

Alabama

The use of tire chains shall be permitted upon any vehicle when required for safety because of snow, rain, or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to slide or skid.

Alaska

You are not permitted to use chains from May 1 through September 15 when north of 60 North Latitude.

You are not permitted to use chains from April 15 through September 30 when south of 60 North Latitude.

If you are operating a vehicle on Sterling Highway, you are not permitted to use chains from May 1 through September 15.

You will need to obtain a special permit from the Department of Administration if you would like to use chains in one of these prohibited zones.

Arizona

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Arkansas

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

California

California does not require trucks to carry chains during any specified time period. When the weather hits, though, it takes at least eight chains for a standard tractor-trailer configuration to comply with the regulations.

During the winter months, there might be traction chain controls in the mountain areas. When these are established you will see signs posted along the highway. These signs will also include the type of requirement, which will include one of the following:

• R1 – Chains, traction devices or snow tires are required on the drive axle of all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles.
• R2 – Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four wheel/ all wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels.
• R3 – Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions.

Colorado

From September 1 through May 31, all trucks may be required at any time at higher elevations when conditions warrant. Trucks must also carry sufficient chains on I-70 when traveling between mile marker 259 outside Golden, CO and mile marker 133 in Dotsero, CO. If you get stopped and do not have chains on your truck, the fine is $50 plus a surcharge of $16.

If you do not put chains on your truck when the law is in effect, the fine is $500 plus a $79 surcharge. If you do not put chains on and you end up blocking the highway, then the fine will increase to $1,000 plus a $157 surcharge.

Colorado has two different types of chain laws:

• Level 1 – Single-axle combination commercial vehicles must chain up. Trucks must have all four drive tires in chains. When level 1 is in effect, all other commercial vehicles must have snow tires or chains.
• Level 2 – When level 2 is in effect, all commercial vehicles are required to chain up the four drive tires.

Connecticut

Cables and chains are permitted only from Nov. 15 through April 30. The chains can not be damaging to the highway’s surface. No minimum number of chains is outlined in the regulations. Violations will start with a warning, but all subsequent offenses will result in a fine not more than $200.

Delaware

You are permitted to use chains on highways from October 15 through April 15 “for safety because of snow, ice or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to slide or skid.”

State officials can restrict travel on highways during emergency situations.

Georgia

At any time the Georgia Department of Transportation may close or limit access to certain highways during inclement weather. If this occurs, signage will be placed to inform drivers that chains are required in order to proceed.

For commercial vehicles, chains must be placed on the outermost drive tires.

Any driver who causes a wreck or blocks the flow of traffic when not complying with the above laws on a limited-access highway will be fined up to $1,000.

Idaho

Officials with the Idaho Department of Transportation can determine that it is unsafe to drive over Lookout Pass and Fourth of July Pass on I-90, and Lolo Pass on Highway 12. If it is deemed unsafe, then you will be required to chain up a minimum of one tire on each drive axle and one axle at or near the rear. sSigns will alert you when to chain up.

Idaho defines chains as two circular metal loops, one on each side of the tire, connected by not less than nine evenly spaced chains across the tread.

Illinois

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Indiana

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways. Indiana also allows “tires in which have been inserted ice grips or tire studs, including retractable tire studs” from Oct. 1 to the following May 1. Just make sure those studs are no more than 3/32 of an inch beyond the tread of the traction surface and do not damage the road.

Iowa

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Kansas

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Kentucky

No person shall use on a highway not covered with ice a vehicle with a chained wheel unless the wheel rests upon an ice-shoe at least 6 inches wide. When chains are used on rubber-tired vehicles, the cross chains shall be not more than three-fourths (3/4) of an inch in thickness or diameter, and shall be spaced not more than ten inches apart, around the circumference of the tires.

Louisiana

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Maine

Vehicles cannot have tires with metal studs, wires, spikes or other metal protruding from the tire tread from May 1 through Oct. 1. Other than that time frame, there is nothing noted within the law regulating the use of tire chains, and that time frame can be extended if needed, other than that the use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Maryland

Chains may be required in Maryland if a snow emergency is declared. Snow emergencies can be declared for individual roads or statewide. Travel – other than for motorcycles – is prohibited on any highway that is designated and appropriately marked by signs as a vehicle emergency route when a snow emergency is in effect unless the vehicle is equipped with chains or snow tires on at least one wheel at each end of a driving axle.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts prohibits the use of studded tires and chains between May 1 and Nov. 1 without a permit. It should also be noted that commercial vehicles can be ordered off the roadways during “snow emergencies.”

Michigan

The use of chains is allowed for safety when snow, ice, or other condition are present. If chains are used, they must not come in direct contact with the roads surface.

Minnesota

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Mississippi

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Missouri

No person shall operate any motor vehicle upon any road or highway of this state between the first day of April and the first day of November while the motor vehicle is equipped with tires containing metal or carbide studs. The law suggests a time frame, but weather is typically fine April through November anyway.

Montana

If the Montana Department of Transportation determines that highways are too dangerous for travel, roadside sings will tell drivers when to chain up. The state’s requirement when the law is in effect is for all “driver wheels” to be chained up.

Violations will result in a $25 fine.

Nebraska

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Nevada

Roadside signs will let you know when chaining up is required. In Nevada, truckers will need to chain at least two wheels on the main drive axle. You are also required to chain the “braking wheels of any trailing vehicle in a combination of vehicles.”

New Hampshire

Nothing in the state statutes addresses snow tires or tire chains specifically. However, the New Hampshire driver’s manual found on the official New Hampshire website recommends tire chains in slippery conditions. So we can assume they’re good to go during inclement weather.

New Jersey

New Jersey goes a little beyond the standard “chains are permitted when needed” directive.

However, no chains shall be used at any time on improved highways when highway conditions do not make such use necessary for the “safety of life or property.”

New Mexico

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

New York

If New York officials, either state or local, post a route as a snow emergency route, all vehicles traveling on it will be required to have snow tires and/or chains. There are no specifics mandating the number of chains or placement.

North Carolina

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

North Dakota

In addition to the standard “chains whenever reasonably needed,” North Dakota also allows metal studs within 1/16 inch beyond tread from Oct. 15 through April 15.

Ohio

In addition to the standard “chains whenever reasonably needed,” the state also allows metal studs within 1/16 inch beyond tread from Nov. 1 through April 15.

Oklahoma

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Oregon

Oregon’s law applies to all highways in the state. Signs will tell you when you are required to carry chains and when you are required to use them. You will need to have six chains on hand to comply in Oregon.

A tandem-drive-axle tractor must have chains on two tires on each side of the primary drive axle (in other words, all four tires of the main axle); or

If both axles are powered, one tire on each side of each drive axle (again, four chains total required; you just don’t have to chain the inside tires).

Chains must also be placed on two tires, one on each side, of any axle on the trailer. The chains can be both on the front axle, both on the rear axle or staggered with one outside tire on the front and the outside tire of the opposite rear axle.

Pennsylvania

The state can declare emergency snow routes. If officials declare a snow emergency route when the roadway is covered with ice or snow, only vehicles with snow tires or “tire chains on two tires on a driven axle” may proceed.

Rhode Island

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

South Carolina

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

South Dakota

The South Dakota DOT has the authority to restrict travel on roads. Signs will alert you to these restrictions. Violating the restrictions could land you with a Class 2 misdemeanor conviction. Tire chains or “sufficient traction devices” are allowed. You don’t have to wait for the signs to tell you to put on your chains. Chains also are permitted if conditions tending to cause a skid are present.

Tennessee

Take caution as Tennessee sends mixed signals with its regulations. In one reg, it says that it is “permissible” to use snow chains when conditions warrant. However, elsewhere, the Volunteer State requires that every truck “likely to encounter” conditions carry at least one set of chains.

Texas

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Utah

The Utah DOT has the authority to restrict highway travel between Oct. 1 and April 30 to vehicles either running chains or at least having them in your possession. You will need to install four or more chains on the “drive wheel” tires. A Class B misdemeanor fine of up to $1,000 can be given for violating chain laws.

Vermont

Vermont has a traffic committee that will decide if use of chains will be required. The regulation mandates that the “advance notice shall be given to the traveling public through signage and, whenever possible, through public service announcements.” This language also mandates that adequate space be provided to chain up. Vehicles with semitrailers or trailers that have a tandem-drive axle towing a trailer shall have chains:

• On two tires on each side of the primary drive axle, or if both axles of the vehicle are powered by the drive line, one tire on each side of each drive axle; and
• On one tire of the front axle and one tire on one of the rear axles of the trailer.

Virginia

The use of tire chains are allowed when required for safety during a time of snow, ice, or another condition that might cause slippery highways.

Washington

Any commercial vehicle over 10,000 lbs. Gross vehicle weight rating mustcarry chains from November 1 to April 1 when driving on one of the below routes.

It takes five chains to comply with the requirement. On a dual-axle tractor, the outside tires on both axles will need to be chained in addition to one tire on either side of either trailer axle. Tractors equipped with wide-base singles will have to chain each tire on each drive axle.

• Blewett Pass

SR-97 between MP 145 and Milepost 185

• Chinook Pass

SR-410 Enumclaw (MP 25) to SR-12 (MP 342)

• Cle Elum to Teanaway

SR-970 Cle Elum (MP 0) to Teanaway (MP 10)

• Gibbons Creek to Intersection of Cliffs Rd.

SR-14 Gibbons Creek (MP 18) to Intersection of Cliffs Rd. (MP 108)

• Mt. Baker Highway (Ellensburg to Selah)

SR-542 (MP22) to (MP 57)
I-82 from Ellensburg (MP 3) to Selah (MP 26)

• Newhalem to Winthrop

SR-20 Newhalem (MP 120) to Winthrop (MP 192)

• Omak to Nespelem

SR-155 Omak (MP 79) to Nespelem (MP 45)

• Satus Pass

SR-97 Columbia River (MP 00) to Toppenish (MP 59)

• Sherman Pass

SR-20 Tonasket (MP 262) to Kettle Falls (MP 342)

• Snoqualmie Pass

I-90 North Bend (MP 32) and Ellensburg (MP 101)

• Stevens Pass

SR-2 Dryden (MP 108) to Index (MP 36)

• White Pass

SR-12 Packwood (MP 135) to Naches (MP 187)

West Virginia

The use of chains is allowed for safety when snow, ice, or other condition are present. If chains are used, they must not come in direct contact with the roads surface.

Wisconsin

The use of chains is allowed for safety when snow, ice, or other condition are present. If chains are used, they must not come in direct contact with the roads surface.

Wyoming

When the chain law is in effect due to snow, ice or other conditions, travel on a highway may be restricted to use only by motor vehicles utilizing adequate snow tires or tire chains. There are two levels.

Level 1: When conditions are hazardous, travel can be restricted to vehicles equipped with tire chains, vehicles with adequate snow tires, or all-wheel-drive vehicles.

Level 2: When conditions are extremely hazardous, travel can be restricted to vehicles equipped with tire chains or all-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with adequate mud and snow or all-weather-rated tires.

The operator of a commercial vehicle shall affix tire chains to at least two (2) of the drive wheels of the vehicle at opposite ends of the same drive axle when the vehicle is required to utilize tire chains under this subsection.

Any driver that is in violation will face a fine of no more than $250. If the violation results in the closure of all lanes in one or both directions of a highway, you will face a fine of no more than $750.

It’s that time of year again. The midwest, northeast, mountain areas in the west and more are already experiencing winter weather, including snow, sleet and hail which make driving conditions challenging, especially for truck drivers.

Medallion Transport & Logistics put together some tips to help keep truck drivers and owner-operators prepared and safe on the road.

Pre Trip Inspections are Crucial

It is always important to do a proper pre trip inspection, especially tire inflation due to constant changing temperatures during wintry conditions. Slow down and give yourself plenty of space.

Brake and accelerate slowly, most equipment is outfitted with ABS brakes but in the event you have equipment that does not have ABS- pump and release brakes lightly until you slow to a manageable speed.

Black ice can be one of the most dangerous winter conditions you may encounter.

Things you may notice when encountering black ice:

• Ice build-up on mirrors, antennas, or windshield wipers
• The spray from tires on others will stop

If the road conditions get too bad sometimes the best thing to do is to get off the road and take a break.

Don’t Leave Without These

When traveling in colder climates you never know what you may encounter.
Here are some things to remember/bring:

• Carry and wear proper clothing
• Bring an extra flashlight (or two)
• Extra food and water
• A bag of salt or sand
• Jumper cables
• Tire chains (especially if running in the northwest)
• Try to keep your fuel tanks full

More Tips

Here are more winter trucking tips from our COO, Jesse.

Questions? Contact Medallion Transport & Logistics

Medallion Transport & Logistics is committed to driver support and safety, especially when it comes to maintenance including regular inspections. We offer our freight agents and owner operators a national tire purchase program and emergency road service, although preventative maintenance for safety and to avoid any down time is always encouraged. For questions about driver safety, give us a call at 704-235-0460 or send us an email to info@medalliontrans.com.

The following truck stops are offering our military heroes free meals starting Friday, November 10th in observance of Veterans Day.

TA Petro 

Travel Centers of America will offer active-duty military and veterans a free breakfast, lunch or dinner at participating quick serve or full serve locations on Friday, Nov. 10th with proof of service.

View more info here.

Pilot Flying J 

Participating Pilot Flying J truck stops are offering military service members and their families a complimentary meal at over 750 at participating Pilot, Flying J and One9 Fuel Network travel centers nationwide. From Nov. 10th through Nov. 12th service members and their families verified through ID.me in the myRewards Plus app will receive a free meal credit valued up to $12.

View more info here.

Safe Driver of the Year, Danny T., was honored by Medallion Transport & Logistics with a special celebration and unforgettable weekend at NASCAR’s Brickyard 400 in Indianapolis at the end of August.

The all-expenses paid weekend for Danny and his wife was Medallion’s way of thanking him for his commitment to safe driving. He was one of several winners, including the safe driver of the year for Medallion’s affiliate company, NHH Services. The winners had the best accumulated safety scores for criteria including roadsides, compliance, dash cam monitoring, safety meeting attendance and more.

‘It was a great feeling to be Medallion’s Safe Driver of the Year,” he said. “There are a lot of good drivers out there who prove they are quality drivers, so I was really honored.”

Danny added that receiving this award isn’t just about getting safety credit, but also for being rewarded to learn. His time at in-person company events has helped him better understand the parts and components of his truck.

“Jesse and the safety team go over each part so you can learn how they ware and when to replace them.”

The award was his first major award since joining Medallion, although leading up to the big title, he was named Safe Driver of the Month more than once. Danny is proud that he hasn’t had a violation in many years.

Danny is a long-time driver. In 2000, he got his CDL and drove for 15 years before transitioning into an over-the-road owner-operator. He joined Medallion in 2017.  

He says Medallion makes it easy to get involved, learn, and get credit for doing so through in-person events like reorientation, and their extra mile effort is the motivation behind making owner-ops want to become and remain safe drivers.

“Some people think reorientation is boring and includes the same stuff, but I do learn every time,” he said. “You also get to know people better and the safety team will crawl under your truck and make sure everything is good.”

Danny drives on average hundreds of miles per weekday, but always does his best to be home on weekends with his wife of 41 years. He also enjoys his visits with his daughter and grandson.

“I look forward to my time with family and I love being home every weekend.”

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW) runs Sunday, Sept. 10 – Saturday, Sept. 16. and there are some perks truck drivers don’t want to miss.

Pilot Offers Food & Drink Specials

In September, truck drivers will be able to enjoy savings through the myRewards Plus app at participating Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel centers, including:

• Three free drinks every week on Pilot coff­ee, fountain drinks, and top-selling beverage brands from the cooler
• Offers on freshly prepared foods each week — including 50% off pizza, burgers, salads and more
• Food and beverage discounts of 10% for active military or veteran truck drivers (after authentication through ID.me)
• Additional off­ers, including food and beverage buy-one-get- one deals throughout the month
• Canadian professional drivers will automatically receive an extra bonus point per four liters when they swipe their myRewards card

Food & Free Merch Deals at Love’s

My Love Rewards members will receive an email with two offers available throughout September. Drivers can enjoy a free Love’s-branded consumable product up to $5 in value, including Love’s water, bagged candy, salty snacks and trail mix. They can also earn $10 in My Love Rewards points on an oil change and preventive maintenance at any Love’s Truck Care or Speedco location during the month. Members can activate both offers with a single tap in the special offer email they receive.

Additional deals include:

• Fresh food and drink deals Sept. 11-15.
• Free hot sandwich, bowl or fresh salad with an oil change Sept. 11-15.
• Free Love’s hat with the purchase of a 3-pack of gloves for $9.99, while supplies last.

TA Celebrates Drivers with Special Experience

TravelCenters of America is recognizing professional drivers across the country Sept. 10-17 for their countless efforts and contributions. To honor drivers, TA said it has curated an exclusive driver experience to show its appreciation.

Professional drivers who stop at participating locations during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week will have the opportunity to engage in activities and initiatives, including:

• Cookouts
• ‘Thank You’ cards with coupons
• Window washes
• Truck mid-trip and tire inspections
• Goodie bags
• Cornhole tournaments