If you don't know these winter driving laws, you could end up paying hundreds in fines

Driving without the right tires or without clearing the snow from your vehicle can get you charged in certain states.

Transcript

00:00With winter now here, there are some important winter driving laws that you should be aware of

00:05as a violation could cost hundreds of dollars and put yourself and others at risk of a crash.

00:10In Colorado, this winter brings a big change to the centennial state's traction law.

00:16If you don't have winter, all-weather, or mud and snow tires with at least 3 16ths of an inch tread depth

00:23and you cause a blockage to traffic in snow or ice, a hefty $650 fine could come your way.

00:31If you don't have the approved tires, traction devices like snow chains are an accepted alternative.

00:37If you're flying to Denver to pick up that rental car for a ski trip,

00:40ask the car rental company if the tires are compliant so you stay out of trouble.

00:45As the flakes fly and snow covers your car or truck, some state and even city laws

00:49require you to clear the snow and ice from your roof hood and windows

00:53or that could cost you.

00:55Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin,

01:00Tennessee, Georgia, and Alaska have laws requiring you to clear it or you may face a fine.

01:05In New York City, drivers must clear the snow if it is 3 inches or more

01:09or a fine could reach $850.

01:12Even if you're in a state without a specific snow removal law,

01:15if there is deep snow on your hood obstructing your view,

01:19you could be charged with reckless driving.

01:21Investing in the right tires and taking the time to clear the snow and ice

01:24will keep you much safer and keep the fines away.