The state of Alaska says drivers can feel free to leave their studded tires on for an extra couple weeks. Studs are allowed in Alaska from Sept. 15 through April 30, but the Alaska Departments of Public Safety and Transportation announced last week that the deadline to remove those tires is being extended to May 11.
The decision is meant to avoid the rush of tire changes that tends to happen right before the deadline. Alaskans are supposed to be social distancing and staying home for all but critical reasons. Auto repair has been designated as an essential business and is allowed to still operate, but having a rush of customers isn’t good for the health and safety of workers or customers.
DOT says that studded tires cause additional wear and tear on roads but with fewer Alaskans out and about driving these days, they don’t foresee the later switchover deadline causing much of an increase in resurfacing needs.
