How to Drive With Studded Snow Chains
Chains are required on certain roads when driving in snowy, icy conditions, particularly if you do not have four-wheel drive or snow tires. Carry snow chains in the trunk when these conditions might be present and be prepared to put them on should you be required to. Snow chains provide traction in conditions where tires would otherwise be prone to sliding. Driving properly with the snow chains will ensure the safest trip.
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Instructions
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Purchase the correct snow chains. Prior to traveling, pack snow chains that are correctly sized for your tires.
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Put the chains on. When snow chain restrictions are in place or when you decide that you need the chains to safely travel, pull over to a safe spot on the road and install the chains. Be sure that you are as far off the road as you can be, bearing in mind that other drivers may have limited traction and visibility. Turn your hazard lights on. Install the chains on the tires of the drive axle(s). For a front-wheel drive vehicle, this would be the front axle; rear-wheel drive, the rear axle; and all-wheel drive/four-wheel drive, both axles (all tires).
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Drive forward or backward about 15 feet and then recheck the chains. Be sure that they remain snug on the tires and tighten them if necessary.
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Accelerate and decelerate slowly and steadily. Avoid punching the gas and spinning the tires.
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Drive slowly. Refer to the chain manufacturer's instructions for the speed restrictions of the chains. Such restrictions generally fall in the 25 mph to 30 mph range. Don't exceed the maximum speed, and remember that bad road conditions will require extra stopping distance, so allow extra room between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Brake early and steadily.
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Remove the chains when the road is clear of snow. Once you reach clear road, on which there are no chain restrictions, remove the chains as soon as possible. Driving with chains on asphalt can cause premature wear.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice installing the chains before you need them. Chains are required for the worst possible weather condtions, so it would be beneficial to have experience installing them ahead of time.
Check with the appropriate roadway authority prior to your trip to find out about possible restrictions.
In addition to chains, pack extra winter clothing (gloves, hat, insulation) and a plastic tarp to kneel on to ensure that you remain warm and dry when installing the chains.
