Clear the snow off your car for everyone’s safety

Reduced visibility

Your visibility is reduced if you can’t see out your car windows or windshield. This increases your risk of getting in an accident. You could injure a pedestrian or someone else on the road.

To see clearly:

• Remove snow and ice completely from the windshield and all windows with a snow scraper or broom. Clear the windshield wipers before turning them on. It’ll prevent them from being damaged.
• Clear off your vehicle’s front headlights and back taillights. Other road users will be able to see you and know what you’re planning to do.

Snow and ice left on your car: an accident waiting to happen

When you speed up, that layer of snow or ice could fly off and land on vehicles behind you. This could cause an accident, significant damage, serious injury, even death.

Picture yourself braking abruptly. A pile of snow or ice sitting on the vehicle roof now slides onto the windshield. It totally blocks your view. In such a situation, your windshield wipers could become stuck under the weight. You could also cause damage by switching them on.  

Statutory penalties

The Highway Safety Code includes penalties for drivers of snow-covered vehicles.

Indeed, you’re looking at a fine of $100 to $200 if you drive a vehicle with obstructed windows or windshield. 

Are you driving a vehicle covered in snow or ice? If it flies off the vehicle, you may have to pay a fine of $60 to $100.

Increased insurance premiums

Driving a snow-covered vehicle could also cause your insurance premiums to go up. 

As the risks of accident, damage and injury are increased, so are the risks of having to file an insurance claim.

Your insurance broker is there to help you prevent losses. Contact him or her!