OLYMPIA — Tire socks are fabric covers that slip over wheels to give drivers better traction in the snow.
They originated in Scandinavia and now they may roll on Washington highways.
Sen. Tracey Eide of Federal Way sponsored a bill that passed the Legislature Thursday that could add tire socks to the list of traction devices allowed on state roadways, along with studded tires and chains. Eide says tire socks cause less damage to pavement.
Washington State Patrol spokeswoman Melissa Van Gorkom said the bill sets up a process that could lead to approval if tests show tire socks are as good as chains. She said the AutoSock company plans to present information for a decision before next winter.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
