Tire Chaining Alerts/Resources

I am traveling in the NW (Oregon, MT, WA) for the first time in my career. I frequently hear drivers hear that if chains are required, they shut down. I am all in favor of doing this, but what resources do you guys use to check this ahead of time?

On my way out here on 90, I didn’t see any digital signs which may alert a driver before they head through a mountain pass. I only saw signs which indicated Chan up and chain off areas, but once a driver hits these areas it’s obviously too late.

Are there any online resources I can use? I guess maybe if it’s snowing a few inches before the pass, it’s safe to assume the mountain is going to be bad shape, but I was hoping for a more definitive resource. Thanks!

The various state DOT websites are the best resource and some of the most current reports will come from other drivers on the radio going the other way.

It is as simple as calling 511 in the state you are in, or just googling road conditions Oregon, etc.

You can call 511. If you have a current road atlas, in the front, the phone number for each state's DOT info resource is listed. As previously stated, a good ole CB radio is a very useful safety tool. Unfortunately, I don't think near enough drivers these days even realize this. Fewer still even have one in their cab.

Speaking of chains.. has anyone here tried those snow sock thingies for the tires instead of chains. I am really curious about them especially because their lighter weight and easier storage.

Not to hijack this thread, but Brett have you thought about putting something like an alerts section on here? Just another forum section where drivers can post traffic or weather alerts, road conditions, things like that.

The snow socks work well and are super easy to use. A good set of chains will still get a better bite in the snow just by the design but I'd definitely invest in the tire socks if I didn't already have a set of chains for the truck.

Not to hijack this thread, but Brett have you thought about putting something like an alerts section on here? Just another forum section where drivers can post traffic or weather alerts, road conditions, things like that.

This would actually be a great idea! I'd love to see what's going on in the outside world...

There are a TON of resources out there that focus on your specific area of interest ie weather, road conditions, restriction, traffic etc etc.. Not to mention dispatch (company) systems that are on the ball if you're lucky. In my opinion, this forum serves other purposes for new and experienced drivers...

Not to hijack this thread, but Brett have you thought about putting something like an alerts section on here? Just another forum section where drivers can post traffic or weather alerts, road conditions, things like that.

Sorry I didn't answer this sooner. I had meant to and forgot.

I would be super easy to do but I don't know how useful it would be. I'm not sure if people would really use it or not.