What type of rims are prohibited on a highway for commercial motor vehicles?

The prohibition of studded rims for commercial motor vehicles on highways is grounded in safety and highway maintenance considerations. Studded rims are designed with protruding metal studs that provide enhanced traction, particularly in icy or snowy conditions. While they can improve grip in wintry weather, they also pose significant risks to road surfaces.

These studs can lead to increased wear and tear on pavement, causing cracks and ruts, which not only endangers the integrity of the road but can also create a hazardous driving environment for all vehicles. As a result, many jurisdictions have regulations against the use of studded tires on public roadways, particularly for heavy commercial vehicles that add more strain to the pavement.

In contrast, alloy rims, steel rims, and plastic rims are commonly acceptable as they do not exert the same level of destructive impact on road surfaces. Alloy and steel rims are prevalent in commercial vehicle applications due to their durability, while plastic rims are typically not practical for heavy-duty uses but do not have the detrimental effects that studded rims do.