Is driving with snow on my vehicle illegal?

The winter season is a time for celebration for many with all the holidays and festivities to partake in. On the other hand, for drivers, winter is anything but a joyous occasion. Winter weather can make roads extremely hazardous, as well as other drivers. While most New Jersey residents are prepared for winter conditions, that does not mean they are always particularly responsible. After a large amount of snowfall, some people might think it is ok to only wipe the snow and ice from their windows and mirrors before hitting the road.

However, this could not be farther from the truth. Any snow or ice that comes flying off the roof or hood of a car can be extremely dangerous for other drivers. Because of this, it is illegal for drivers to be on the road with any snow or ice on their vehicles. Drivers who are caught or cause damage to other vehicles could be facing serious fines and lawsuits. If you were recently involved in such an incident and need solid legal representation, reach out to a Bergen County criminal defense attorney at The Law Office of Attorney Conway.

What are the penalties for driving with snow on my vehicle?

Driving with snow and ice on your vehicle can limit your visibility while you are driving, and can potentially cause hazardous conditions for other motorists. If you are caught without all the snow and ice wiped off your vehicle, you will be facing a potential traffic violation which may mean paying fines ranging from $25 up to $75. If the ice or snow from your car causes damage to another person’s vehicle, that may make you susceptible to heftier fines between $200-$1,000. For passenger and commercial vehicles, the fines can range from $500 up to $1,000, regardless of any damages to other vehicles.

However, the penalties for driving with snow on your vehicle may not end there. If any flying ice or snow from your vehicle caused damages or injuries for another driver, that could potentially lead to far more serious legal troubles. In that scenario, you could be liable for any injuries or damages they sustained which would make you vulnerable to a personal injury claim. On its own, the process for personal injury lawsuits can be both financially draining and time-consuming. Lawsuits like this can take years to resolve, which may end with you reimbursing the victim with a substantial settlement. If you find yourself in this situation, you do not have to handle it on your own. It is essential to have an experienced attorney working on your behalf to ensure that your case is given a fighting chance.