Driving a Snow-Covered Car Will Land You with a Ticket in Michigan
Those extra minutes needed to clear your car during a winter’s morning are preferable to a hefty ticket
Photo: Pexels
Due to several bouts of nasty winter weather, clearing your car of snow and ice can be a time-consuming and frustrating endeavor. Unfortunately, many motorists decide to forego the process altogether, traveling down busy highways with snow still covering their vehicles, placing themselves and others in danger.
Michigan, a state used to heavy amounts of ice and snow, has a system set up to punish these irresponsible drivers. In fact, operating a snow-coated car can land you a ticket throughout the state of Michigan.
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Michigan’s automotive laws require drivers to remove snow from their windshields, windows, taillights, rear lamps, headlamps, and license plate before heading out on the road. After all, Michigan drivers are forbidden from operating a vehicle if there is any object obstructing their vision.
Furthermore, Michigan Vehicle Code, Section 257.677a states that drivers are held accountable if ice and snow flies off of their vehicle and hits another vehicle on the road. This law also holds motorists responsible if ice and snow that flies off their vehicle obstructs the vision of another driver.
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“You can be cited for a vision obstruction if you don’t clear the snow and ice from your car,” explained Michigan State Police Lt. Mike Shaw. “You can also get a citation for depositing snow on the road from the top of your vehicle. Both are civil infractions.”
How much can a ticket for this violation cost? It varies depending on court decisions, but according to the 36th District Court, impeding traffic can land violators with a $175, interfering with moving traffic results in a $130 ticket, and driving a vehicle with obstructed vision can cost drivers around $120.
Removing the ice and snow from your car during a cold morning is nobody’s favorite activity. Still, it’s a necessary one to prevent hefty court fees and, more importantly, dangerous driving conditions.
News Source: Detroit Free Press
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