Did you know that drivers in New York could face fines if they don't clean the snow off their vehicles?
If you've lived in New York during the winter and have driven after a snowfall, you are well aware that some people refuse to clean off the snow from the top of their vehicles. We've all witnessed it at one time or another: that one driver who cleaned off only half of their car or truck. Oftentimes, the roof will have a foot of snow on it and will come flying off at the worst possible time casing havoc for the driver behind them.
Unfortunately, there isn't a specific law in New York State about cleaning snow off cars, but offenders can still face fines, points on their license, and more, according to WTEN. There are a couple of reckless driving traffic laws that, if interpreted correctly, could lead to hefty fines, including New York Vehicle and Traffic law section 121,2 which states,
"Reckless driving shall mean driving or using any motor vehicle, motorcycle or any other vehicle propelled by any power other than muscular power or any appliance or accessory thereof in a manner which unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of the public highway or any parking lot or unreasonably endangers users of the public highway or any parking lot."
 
Drivers can also be pulled over if snow or ice is obscuring the windshield, as it's considered reckless driving according to New York Vehicle and Traffic law section 1212. Drivers must clear the entire windshield, windows, roof, hood, lights, and plates for full visibility and safety.
Drivers charged with reckless driving could face misdemeanor charges, fines up to $850, and points on their license.
Most of us don't need an explanation, but if you do, any snow left on top of a vehicle can fly off and possibly blind other drivers and lead to an accident. Snow left on the roof of a vehicle can also slide down onto the windshield and block the drivers vison, which can also lead to an accident.
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