Studded tires OK on Washington highways Nov. 1

OLYMPIA — Studded tires are legal again on Washington state highways starting Thursday, as winter travel laws take effect Nov. 1. Drivers will have to take them off by next March 31, because of damage they cause to pavement and bridges. The Transportation Department also reminds drivers of big trucks they need to carry chains in case they need to chain up to cross mountain passes. The department says the Washington state troopers will have a chain emphasis patrol in early November to make sure trucks heavier than 10,000 pounds are carrying chains. And, any car or truck driver who ignores highway advisories this winter to chain up will face a $500 penalty.