Motorists warned about snow on car roofs

Snow on car roofs

While there is no specific legislation regarding snow on cars, drivers could be responsible if it causes an accident.

“If it slips over the windscreen, or flies into the path of another car, it could leave the driver open to being penalised for driving without due care and attention or careless or inconsiderate driving,” North Yorkshire Police said in a statement.

“Any snow left on vehicle bodywork, such as the bonnet or roof, could slide onto lights or windows causing dangerous obstruction to vision of the driver or signals to other road users.”

“Snow could also slide from a moving vehicle and onto a footpath or roadway possibly causing danger or injury to other road users or pedestrians.”

Rule 229 of the Highway Code states, in a section entitled ‘driving in adverse weather conditions’, that snow should be removed from your car.

The full rule says: ‘Before you set off you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows. You MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible, make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly.

‘Remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users. Check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted.’

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Before you set off

you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows

you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible

make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly

remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users

check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted.
Laws CUR reg 30, RVLR reg 23, VERA sect 43 & RV(DRM)R reg 11

Rule 230 of the Highway Code

When driving in icy or snowy weather, drive with care, even if the roads have been treated, keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads.

Take care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer, particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle.

Watch out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either side. Do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has been cleared. Be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short distances.

Listen to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions ahead.