Laws for Tire Chains & Studded Tires in Michigan | Scott Goodwin Law

Laws for Tire Chains & Studded Tires in Michigan

by / Wednesday, 04 December 2024 / Published in Michigan Law
White car driving on a snowy road.

It’s no secret that driving during the winter can be very dangerous. Just in the state of Michigan alone, 30,786 crashes linked to winter weather occurred between October 2022 and April 2023, 59 of which were fatal. 

With how easy it can be for cars to lose traction on icy, snowy roads, tire chains and studded tires are two options many people consider to prevent sliding out of control while driving. Both of these are intended to improve tire traction on slippery roads, but work in different ways. Tire chains are chains which get placed on tires to improve traction while studded tires are tires that have studs embedded in the treads to grip the surface of the road. But if you’re considering these for your cars, are there any laws you need to be aware of? Section 257.710 of the Michigan Vehicle Code answers those questions.

Are Tire Chains Legal in Michigan?

Yes, tire chains are legal in Michigan – but there are some restrictions to keep in mind. Section 257.710 of the Michigan Vehicle Code states: “A person may also use a tire chain of reasonable proportion upon a vehicle when required for safety because of snow, ice, or other condition tending to cause a vehicle to skid.” This means that tire chains need to be removed when icy or snowy conditions are not present and the chains must not be so large that they make contact with the surface of the road. 

Are Studded Tires Legal in Michigan?

While tire chains are legal in Michigan, studded tires – basically – are not. But this answer can be a little complicated. 

In a Traffic Law FAQ provided by Michigan State Police, they explain the laws that apply to studded tires as outlined by Section 257.710 of the Michigan Vehicle Code and Administrative Rules 247.171 through 247.175. The Administrative Rules cover the criteria that need to be met for studded tires to be used, such as which dates they can be used between, where in the state they can be used, and the pavement wear specifications studded tires need to meet. While this all might make it sound like studded tires are legal in Michigan, the Michigan State Police make a very important note on this page: to date, no manufacturer of studded tires has provided the Michigan Department of Transportation with information indicating that their product meets or exceeds Michigan’s pavement wear specifications.

Contact a Michigan Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents at any time of year can cause absolutely devastating injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact a car accident lawyer for help. At Scott Goodwin Law, you’ll be able to get help from a lawyer experienced in helping the victims of a wide range of motor vehicle accident cases and can help you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free case consultation where you can learn more about your legal options and get answers to any questions you have.

Image: Ryan / Unsplash

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