Maine Drivers Could Be in Trouble if This Change Isn't Made Now

If you are reading this on April 30th, you better call your mechanic right now.

This is your friendly reminder that if you are still driving with studded snow tires, it’s time to swap them out, and quick.

Maine law says that studded tires are only allowed on the roads from October 1st to April 30th, unless you want to get a fine.

As per the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, "from the first day of May to the first day of October, a person may not operate a vehicle with tires having metal studs, wires, spikes or other metal protruding from the tire tread."

This translates to: your wallet could take a big hit if you are caught passing the deadline.

Listen, I totally get it, the weather in Maine is chaotic and extremely unpredictable.

Yes it did indeed snow in April.

The law exists for good reason. Studded tires are designed for winter driving but once that snow melts away, they will damage the roads and wear out your tires fast. Plus it’s a nuisance for other drive going over gouges and dips during spring driving.

Make sure you that “swapping the studs” is on your list of many things you have to do.

Many local mechanics and garages will even do it for you for free or maybe as part of a seasonal service, so call around! It’s worth it.

Bottom line is that April 30th is your deadline, Maine, so let’s get those studs off and roll into May smooth and legally.