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Motorists Need To Make Sure Their Cars Are Snow Free Or Risk A Fine

Motorists Need To Make Sure Their Cars Are Snow Free Or Risk A Fine

With parts of the UK now on a red weather alert, road users need to make sure they're driving legally

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

The UK has been absolutely battered by the snow lately, with many parts of the UK now on a Red weather alert - which is the highest warning and indicates that risk to life is 'likely'.

The Met Office has said things are particularly bad because the snow is being accompanied by very strong easterly winds, leading to severe drifting.

"Some places could also see significant ice build up due to freezing rain from later on Thursday evening, most likely in the south of the area," the Met Office says.

"Long delays and cancellations of public transport seem highly likely. Some roads are likely to become blocked by deep snow, stranding vehicles and passengers.

"Long interruptions to power supplies and other utilities are very likely to occur, along with damage to trees and other structures due to heavy snow or ice."

But if you're thinking of driving, you'll need to make sure your car is properly cleared of snow - or you could be whacked with a £60 fine and three points.


via GIPHY

Yup, it's not just your windscreen and windows you need to worry about, according to the Sun. If an officer sees you with snow on your roof, which could potentially fall onto your windscreen and block your view, or sees any snow fall from your car onto the road, you could still be fined.

The highway code says all drivers must 'remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users'.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, told the Sun: "If snow on the roof of your car falls off onto your windscreen, or flies into the path of another car, then you could find yourself in trouble which was completely avoidable.

"With the help of a soft brush and very little effort, you can avoid any penalties by sweeping the snow away.

"If you can, parking in a garage or somewhere undercover can save you time as well as keeping you in the warm a bit longer."

PA

If you're really unlucky you could even end up in court, charged with 'careless driving' which could end in a maximum £5,000 fine and between three and nine points.

So, if you live in an area that's likely to be hit by snow this evening, it's probably best you leave yourself enough time to clear your car before you set off tomorrow.

Source: The Sun

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Snow, Weather, UK News, Cars