Visibility and Dislodging Snow
Police say that driving down the road with snow covered windows significantly reduces visibility for the driver. Cars with snow piled high on the roof can become dislodged as the vehicle travels down the road, blowing off onto the vehicles behind them. Police remind motorists that it only takes a few moments to brush piled snow from the windshield, roof and trunk of a vehicle. In addition, it is a violation of state law to drive down the road with snow blocking visibility or piled on top of a moving vehicle.
Fines and Damages
According to the police, fines for driving with snow piled on windshields, in windows or on the roof or trunk can lead to fines of between $25 and $75, even if the snow does not dislodge from the vehicle. If the snow does dislodge and causes damage or injury to others, the fine can be between $200 and $1,000 for each offense.
Hundreds of Fatalities
According to AAA, there are hundreds of fatalities each year when snow or ice dislodges from a vehicle. In the insurance industry, the phenomenon is known as “ice missiles.” The weight of snow or ice varies greatly and compacted snow on the roof of a car could weigh as much as 20 to 30 pounds. Physics and velocity apply when the ice or snow slides from the vehicle. Because the vehicle with the snow and ice on it is moving forward, the ice slides backwards, often damaging the vehicle behind the one with piled snow. Large trucks should also have snow and ice removed as statistics indicate that 35 percent of tractor-trailer drivers could detail an experience where dislodged snow or ice caused injury or property damage to other motorists, yet 54 percent say they do not remove snow or ice from their trucks. AAA suggests getting up early and clearing snow or ice from your vehicle before leaving or work. Use a brush or ice scraper to remove snow and ice from the windshield, side mirrors, headlights, wheel wells and tailpipe. Do not start the car until you have cleared the tailpipe to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Once the tailpipe is clear, start the car and turn on the front and rear defrosters.
If you are in an area that has experienced significant snow, consider calling Taxi and Car Service to get you to and from your destination. Their drivers are experienced in all types of weather and their vehicles are all free of snow and ice. Contact them today by visiting their website or call them to arrange for your safe transportation to and from any destination, especially when the weather is dangerous.
For all of your travel needs, call Exclusive Taxi and Car Service at 732-350-8294, or visit us on the web at www.exclusivetaxiandcarservice.com