PORTLAND — Oregonians can legally use studded tires beginning Thursday, but state leaders are pleading for drivers to use other options first.
The Oregon Department of Transportation said the traction tires are legal to use throughout the state from Nov. 1 through March 31. The news comes as snow falls on Mount Hood and other parts of the Cascades this week.
Studded tires are believed to be a significant cause of road damage to state highways. Oregon’s last estimate, based on a 2014 study, put annual damage at $8.5 million. That doesn’t include U.S. highways or city streets. Drivers can use chains to increase traction on ice or snow or other types of traction tires.
