Monday's rain created some interesting driving conditions this week. Highways became slick sheets of ice, while gravel roads with snow accumulation turned to slippery mush.
Area passes were closed on and off, with most re-opening on Tuesday.
The National Weather Service is predicting continued snow and rain this weekend, with storms clearing out on Monday.
The Colorado State Patrol shares the following tips to keep drivers safe:
If you are involved in a crash, stay in your vehicle and keep your seatbelt buckled, call 911 and wait for CSP, local law enforcement or emergency management professionals to arrive. Many crashes could be avoided if motorists SLOW DOWN, use caution and drive for the conditions. Slowing down allows you the opportunity to react to changing conditions. Always drive with your view to the front of the hood so you're prepared to react as needed and leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead of you.Avoid a fine! Both passenger and commercial motorists should be aware of the state of Colorado's traction and chain laws which are implemented when conditions require it. When either law is in effect, highway signage will be activated. Without proper equipment, motorists can be fined $130. If your vehicle blocks the roadway, you could be fined more than $650.Passenger vehicles: Traction Law (Code 15) - Drivers need snow tires, tires with mud/snow (M/S) designation, or a four-wheel drive vehicle - all tires must have a minimum one-eighth inch tread.Passenger Vehicle Chain Law (Code 16) - Every vehicle on the roadway must have chains or an alternative traction device (like AutoSock).Commercial vehicles: Commercial Chain Law (Code 18) - All commercial vehicles must chain up. Code 18 may be implemented any time there is snow covering the pavement on an ascending grade and to minimize road closures.CDOT is reminding motorists to consult the department's traveler information tools:
Visit www.COTRIP.org to view road conditions, travel alerts and track our snow plows;
Call 511 anywhere in Colorado for periodically updated road conditions.
