Can Snow Chains Be Used on Highways?
2 Answers
Snow chains cannot be used on highways. Here are the reasons why snow chains are not suitable for highways: 1. Damage to the road: The use of snow chains can cause damage to the road surface. Given the high daily traffic volume on highways, continuous use of snow chains can significantly harm the road. 2. Ineffectiveness: At high speeds, snow chains become ineffective. Therefore, the driving speed should not exceed 40 km/h, while the typical speed on highways is around 80 km/h. 3. Increased risk of accidents: When driving with snow chains, avoid sudden braking, rapid acceleration, sharp turns, and continuous spinning. This is because the primary function of snow chains is to enhance the friction between tires and the ground in snowy conditions.
Using snow chains on highways is quite a risky choice. I've been driving for over a decade, so I know this well. Chains are primarily designed for snow and ice, with speed limits below 50 km/h. On highways, the high speeds can easily cause chains to break or fly off, leading to accidents. When the car accelerates, the vibrations become particularly intense, making the steering wheel feel unstable and the noise unbearable. I've encountered this issue while driving in mountainous areas—not only do tires wear out quickly, but the suspension system can also be damaged. Safety first isn't just a saying; with heavy traffic on highways, even a small oversight can lead to trouble. I recommend using snow chains only on low-speed roads covered in snow and always checking that the chains are securely installed beforehand. If the weather is severe, switching to winter tires is a more reliable option—they offer better traction and durability. Never risk it to save a few bucks; both life and your car are precious.
