Wisconsin Tire Chain Laws

Every state has its own tire chain laws.tire and chain image by Michel Essiambre from Fotolia.com

Winter weather strikes Wisconsin every year, and drivers from that state know the importance of using snow chains. Wisconsin law contains multiple laws in regard to tire chains, and before utilizing this type of winter tire equipment, it's important for residents and travelers alike to understand the laws that regulate them in the state.

Legal Conditions

Under Wisconsin law the only time any metal from a tire is allowed to touch the highway is when hazardous conditions make tire chains a safer alternative for drivers than the actual rubber tires themselves. The law specifically lists snow and ice as the two main causes, but also adds in a clause stating "or other conditions" to give a bit of leeway in deciding what conditions tire chains are appropriate in versus those that are not right.

Wisconsin State Code 347.45 is the specific state statute that deals with tire chains. These chains are expressly forbidden unless snow, ice or other similar weather conditions make driving safer with the chains than without them. This is not a seasonal issue: if it's winter but the roads are clear, a person can be pulled over and fined heavily for having snow chains on his tires. The law also states that the links making up the snow chains must be a reasonable size. The code also states that any vehicle is allowed to use chains in these conditions: from cars to semis or even tractors.

The use of tire chains on a car at any other time is strictly forbidden under Wisconsin law, as the law specifically points out "metal tires" or metal of any kind from a tire touching the highway as illegal unless snow and ice make it otherwise. Because of this, tire chains are illegal on cleared roads in the winter or on most roads any other time of the year. Tire chains damage the road, and improper use can result in hefty fines and ticketing from Wisconsin police officers.