It Is An Offence To Drive Without Clearing Your Vehicle of Snow.
Many drivers who fail to clear snow from their vehicles before setting off on their journey are putting themselves and also other road users and pedestrians at risk. This is an offence and can result in a fixed penalty.
The Highway Code states:
- lights, indicators, reflectors, and number plates MUST be kept clean and clear.
- windscreens and windows MUST be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision.
Before Setting Off On Your Journey:
- You MUST clear your windscreen and all lights completely of all ice and snow (you can get fined for not doing so!).
- You MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible (you can get fined for not doing so!)
- You MUST remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users (you can get fined for not doing so!)
- Check brakes, lights, and oil and washer fluid levels.
- Make sure your vehicle is in winter roadworthy condition.
- Check that your tyres meet the legal requirements. Tyres that do not have the legal tread will seriously affect your car’s traction and steering.
- Carry water and de-icer in the car with you.
- If you are going on a longer journey, make sure you bring food, hot drinks, warm blankets and a fully charged mobile phone
What To Keep In Your Car:
- Blanket, rug or sleeping bag
- Shovel
- Bits of carpet or thick cardboard to place under driven wheels to help regain traction on ice or snow
- Salt, sand or cat litter – to help clear snow and ice
- Reflective jacket(s)
- Ice scraper and de-icer
- Torch and batteries
- Tow rope
- Battery jump leads
- Bottled water
- Snacks – chocolate or cereal bars
- Extra screen wash