Washington Allows Studded Snow Tires

Break out the studded snow tires. The Washington Department of Transportation has authorized their use two weeks early this year.

Early winter storms in the mountain passes prompted the department to announce Friday that beginning immediately, the tires are legal on Washington roads.

People usually are not allowed to put studded tires on their cars until Nov. 1. The tires are legal until March 31, 1997.

In Idaho, studded tires are legal from Oct. 1 to April 15.

For mountain pass information, motorists can call (888) 766-4636. Hearing impaired callers using TTD’s should dial (800) 833-6388, then type (206) 440-4040 when asked for an extension.

Pass reports also are available on the Internet at http:/ /www.wsdot.wa.gov/. , DataTimes