OLYMPIA - The studded tire deadline is extended through Saturday, April 5, according to a press release from the Washington State Department of Transportation.
     "The anticipated winter weather for the next few days plus the desire to give drivers time next week to remove studded tires led to this decision," said Chris Christopher, WSDOT Co-Director for Maintenance and Operations. "We don't anticipate extending the deadline past April 5.
     "If you live in an area where it is warming up today or don't plan to travel over the mountains, we encourage you to beat the rush and remove your tires as soon as possible," Christopher added.
     WSDOT officials do advise drivers to carry tire chains and monitor weather forecasts as well at the WSDOT Web site at www.wsdot.wa.gov.
     Washington State Patrol troopers will enforce a $101 fine for those who keep their studded tires on beyond the deadline.
     Also, starting April 1, vehicles or combination of vehicles over 10,000 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) will not have to carry sufficient tire chains to meet the Washington State law. These vehicles are required to carry chains from Nov. 1 - March. 31.
     "As with passenger cars, we encourage these trucks to continue to carry chains if they are traveling over the mountains," Christopher said. "Safety is very important and all drivers are encouraged to check the conditions and know before they go."