Is it illegal to drive with snow on your car?
Generally illegal if snow obstructs your view or poses a hazard to other drivers.
Driving with snow on your car is illegal in many states if it limits your visibility or risks flying off to strike other vehicles. While many jurisdictions treat it as a secondary offense related to 'obstructed view,' several states have specific 'ice and snow' laws requiring complete clearance of the roof, hood, and trunk. Neglecting this duty can lead to civil liability if an accumulation of snow causes a multi-car accident on the highway.
RELEVANT LAWS
- N.J. Stat. § 39:4-77.1Snow and ice removal requirement
- PA Title 75 § 3720Pelting of vehicles with snow or ice
- N.H. Rev. Stat. § 265:79-bNegligent Driving (Jessica's Law)
- CT Gen Stat § 14-252aRemoval of ice and snow from motor vehicles
POTENTIAL PENALTIES
- Fines typically ranging from $50 to $200 for failing to clear the vehicle
- Enhanced fines up to $1,500 if flying ice causes property damage or injury
- Potential reckless driving charges in extreme cases
- Civil liability for damages caused by ice missiles hitting other cars
JURISDICTION
Laws vary significantly by state; northern states like New Hampshire and Pennsylvania have much stricter, specific statutes compared to southern regions.
In New Hampshire, the law requiring snow removal is called 'Jessica's Law,' named after a woman killed when a 9-foot piece of ice flew off a truck and hit her car.
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