Is it Legal to Drive with Snow and Ice on Your Car in Virginia?

With the relentless winter weather in Virginia this year, we've all seen plenty of cars on the roads with several inches of snow and ice still on the roof as drivers make their way around.  Many people wonder if it's even legal to drive that way.

Despite the obvious risks, Virginia does not have a law requiring drivers of passenger vehicles or tractor-trailers to remove snow and ice before driving.  In some states such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, drivers face potential fines for not making a reasonable effort to clear off their vehicle prior to driving.  In those states, additional fines can be levied if snow and ice falling off a vehicle causes damage or injuries.

The dangers of leaving snow and ice on a vehicle were clearly illustrated by a recent incident on I-81 in Roanoke County. According to Virginia State Police, a truck driver was injured last Wednesday when several large pieces of ice from another truck crashed through his windshield.  

With the higher speeds on roads such as I-81 and I-77, it is not uncommon for chunks of snow and ice to break free of vehicles and become airborne missiles.  In other cases, melting snow may slide onto the windshield, blocking the driver's view of the road.

Even though it's not required by law, we strongly encourage all drivers to do what they can to remove snow and ice from their vehicles before venturing out - for your safety and the safety of others.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by snow and ice falling from another vehicle, please contact an experienced attorney at Davis, Davis, Davis & Davis, to discuss the incident.  You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.  Your initial consultation is completely free.  Call us at 540-483-5221.