Motorists have been issued a stern warning about the possibility of facing a substantial £2,500 fine and points on their licence for breaching an essential driving regulation in snowy conditions.
While many drivers know to de-ice their windscreens thoroughly before setting out, it’s easy to overlook the importance of removing snow from the car roof.
What seems like a harmless pile of snow on top could pose real dangers, shifting under sudden braking or turning and potentially obstructing vision. The upcoming weekend has road users on high alert, especially those worried about finances.
RAC experts caution: “As for the snow on the roof, while, again, there is no law stating it is illegal to drive with snow on your roof, if it falls off onto your windscreen while driving or flies into the path of another car then you could be penalised for such offences as ‘driving without due consideration’ or ‘using a motor vehicle in a dangerous condition’ – again, not worth the risk.”
Failure to clear the windscreen before driving could instantly cost drivers a £60 fine and add three penalty points on their licence, but operating a vehicle deemed in “dangerous condition” can lead to even heftier fines.
Alongside the potential £2,500 financial hit, drivers may also earn three more penalty points and face the possibility of a discretionary driving ban.
According to the Highway Code, drivers must ensure they have a clear view of the road before setting off, which means clearing all snow and ice from windows.
Halfords’ motoring expert, Andy Turbefield, warned that just four inches of packed snow on a car roof can weigh a massive 262 pounds, equivalent to two standard washing machines, reports the Express.
This can make the car “top-heavy and unstable” to control, and if the snow dislodges while driving, it can cause serious problems. Andy explained: “While a roofbox is securely held in place, snow can dislodge while driving. If this happens during a corner, the weight of the vehicle could immediately change by 119kg, destabilising the car and potentially leading to an accident.”
He added: “What’s more, during braking, the entire mound of snow could tip forward onto the windscreen, completely obscuring the view of the driver.”
This could also pose a danger to other road users if the snow ends up on another vehicle, potentially breaking their windscreen.
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