Warning Issued to U.S. Drivers Ahead Of Major Snowstorms

According to AAA, over 122 million Americans are set to travel over this year's holiday season. Some are flying or taking trains, but the vast majority of Americans who leave home to celebrate with friends, family and loved ones are doing so by car.

Roughly 90% of the estimated 122 million Americans who travel will do so through the aid of a motor vehicle, and one prominent weather service is attempting to keep them aware of laws and regulations around the country.

Some laws related to driving in inclement weather can change based on what state someone is driving in, and being aware of those changes and differences can be the best way to stay safe on the road.

Colorado's Inclement Weather Tire Law

AccuWeather released a video of commonly overlooked traffic laws and regulations, beginning with Colorado's traction law related to tires.

Motorists must have winter, all weather or mud and snow tires with at least three sixteenths (3/16) of an inch of tread depth. If motorists don't have the right tires and they cause a blockage due to snow or ice, they could be subject to a $650 fine.

Snow chains are accepted as a proper traction device if drivers aren't equipped with the right tires, but those traveling to Colorado are urged to ask if their rental car has them.

Warnings Around Ice, Snow Removal

If you don't know these winter driving laws, you could end up paying hundreds of dollars in fines. Driving without the proper tires or failing to clear snow from your vehicle can result in a fine in some states. pic.twitter.com/t9USD4l2ne

— AccuWeather (@accuweather) December 14, 2025

Other states and cities require drivers to remove snow and ice from their vehicles, in order to protect others on the road by providing fewer hazards to visibility.

AccuWeather says drivers in much of the New England area, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Georgia and Alaska are all required to clear snow and ice from their vehicles. If the snow and ice isn't cleared to a satisfactory degree within the law, drivers are subject to a fine.

In New York, drivers can be subjected to a fine of up to $850 if three or more inches of snow has accumulated. AccuWeather also says that even in states with no specific law around snow removal, accumulated snow on the hood that obstructs the driver's view could result in a charge of reckless driving.

These tips arrive as a large cold front is expected to hit the midwest and northeast this week and weekend. Lake-effect snow is possible in areas like Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania, central and western New York and Upper Michigan.

Many of these areas are also expected to experience high winds and rapidly changing conditions from hour to hour, due to the fast moving weather systems. New York governor Kathy Hochul's office released a statement confirming that some meteorologists are projecting certain areas to see as much as three feet of snow over the coming days.