Snow Tires
Snow tires are an important safety accessory for individuals who live in particularly cold climates. Some types of snow tires are appropriate for driving on well-maintained roads, while others are better for driving off-road or on roads that are less maintained than main thoroughfares.
The Rubber Manufacturers Association, or RMA, has issued a number of criteria for determining whether a certain tire is going to be able to handle snowy conditions. Tires that are acceptable for snow on maintained roads are frequently accompanied by a rating that shows them to be acceptable for mud as well. These tires are generally good for year-round use.
Tires that are good for conditions that are worse or exceed those typically found on maintained roads are required to meet additional criteria. These tires are noted with an additional symbol next to the mud/snow designation found on the tire to start. This symbol typically looks like a craggy mountain with the weather symbol for snow within the outline of the mountain.
Other Snow Tire Options
Another option for those who anticipate extensive amounts of snow is purchasing tires that are equipped with studs for additional traction. Rules on this type of tire vary so it is important to check the pertinent laws before spending a fortune on snow tires that are not actually legal.
When using studded snow tires, it is important not to put studs on the front wheels alone of a front-wheel vehicle. Front -wheel-drive vehicles require that all four tires have studs for the traction to work best. Rear-wheel-drive vehicles, which are not as safe in colder climates when dealing with ice and snow to start, can have only studs on the rear wheels. Four studded tires are not required in this situation. But it is imperative never to install studded snow tires on the front wheels of a vehicle alone.
Contact a Milwaukee Car Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured by another driver’s negligent actions, contact the Milwaukee car accident attorneys of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® at 1-800-242-2874.
