March 31 is the deadline for Oregonians to remove studded tires, the Oregon Department of Transportation announced this week.
ODOT won’t extend the 2015-16 studded tire season past that date. Studded tires are allowed in Oregon from Nov.1 through March 31 each year. The law allows ODOT to extend the studded tire season when necessary, but current weather forecasts do not support an extension this year, according to an ODOT statement.
ODOT is making this decision in cooperation with the Washington Department of Transportation, which also announced it will not extend its studded tire season past March 31.
Drivers with studded tires on their vehicles after the deadline can be charged with a Class C traffic violation.
“Please don’t wait until the deadline to remove your studded tires,” said Luci Moore, ODOT maintenance and operations engineer, “especially if you aren’t driving in the mountain passes between now and then.”
Drivers are encouraged to consider other types of traction tires or chains to help minimize roadway damage caused by studded tires. A 2014 study concluded studded tires cause about $8.5 million in damage each year to state highways.
Other types of traction tires are available that meet Rubber Manufacturers Association standards for use in severe snow conditions and carry an emblem on the tire sidewall of a three-peaked mountain with a snowflake in the center. Research shows these tires cause no more damage than standard all-weather radial tires, while providing better traction than studded tires on bare pavement.