Under the Oregon Department of Transportation's recently modified chain regulation, tandem drive axle trucks are allowed to go without chains when signs are posted.


The change, which was requested by Oregon trucking associations, applies to situations where tandem drive axle trucks may not need chains. Under the new regulation, when these drivers see signage indicating "Chains required on vehicles towing or single drive axle over 10,000 GVW," they will not need chains on their tandem drive axle truck. However, these vehicles will need to chain up when signs say, "Chains required on vehicles towing or over 10,000 GVW," or "Chains required - traction tires allowed on vehicles under 10,000 GVW."

Under the new signs, single drive axle vehicles over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight are required to wear chains. It also applies to vehicles that are towing, such as a pickup towing a boat. Chains must also be used on the trailer or vehicle being towed.

"There are times when large multi-axle trucks might not need to put on chains, but single drive axle trucks over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or vehicles towing trailers will need to chain up," said George Ruby, ODOT district 12 manager. "The new chain condition is another tool for ODOT to use during inclement weather conditions and we expect it will help keep traffic moving with fewer tie-ups."

With Oregon's varied climate, winter weather conditions are unpredictable, ODOT says.

"It's a good idea to carry chains whenever you travel, especially in fall and winter months," said Luci Moore, ODOT maintenance and operations engineer. "Oregon law requires you to carry chains in snow zones, regardless of the weather conditions."

Chains may be required in very bad winter road conditions regardless of the type of vehicle or type of tire being used. This is known as a conditional road closure, and may occur on any of Oregon's highways.

"Regardless of whether the chains required signs are posted, it is every driver's responsibility to maintain control of their vehicle at all times," said Ruby.

For more information about chains and snow zone notices in Oregon, visit www.tripcheck.com.

CORRECTION: We originally reported, incorrectly, that tandem drive axle vehicles do not have wear chains at any time in Oregon, under the new rule. Chains are required on these vehicles when signs indicate that. We regret the error.