Highway Code - Points to remember when driving in snow

[RLFH470]

Hi all,

Just heard from a colleague that Police have been pulling cars over around here because they "had snow on them". Thinking this was a bit weird, just checked the online Highway Code and sure enough, the rule does exist and here it is a direct copy/paste and highlighted in red:

229

Before you set off

• you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows
• you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
• make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly
• remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
• check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted

[Laws CUR reg 30, RVLR reg 23, VERA sect 43 & RV(DRM)R reg 11]

Don't think many other drivers are aware of this rule judging by what I saw on the way to work this morning... me included as didn't clear the snow off my roof!!

So drive safe as more on the way.

[neverlandandy]

seen a guy driving away this morning with a tiny little bit of his windscreen cleared must have been no bigger than a tea plate now that is crazy

[luke4487]

haha but I love the snow cloud that flys off my roof in the morning :P Always do the bonnet, windows and lights though..

[paul.sessions]

seen a guy driving away this morning with a tiny little bit of his windscreen cleared must have been no bigger than a tea plate now that is crazy

was it me!! too cold to stand around clearing snow imo

[m8internet]

It's a recommendation in the Highway Code only, not statute

[Ruperts Trooper]

It's a recommendation in the Highway Code only, not statute

Failure to comply with any part of the Highway Code is sufficient to get a conviction for "driving without due care and consideration for other road users".

[Leemarksmith]

Someone should fit a forward facing "reversing" camera, and drive about with the car still covered in snow...

[Big Knox]

after about 10 minutes of driving while it's snowing, you can't read most folks front number plates anyways, should I pull over every 5 minutes and clear it?

[rockh]

Always clear the snow off the car roof after having a large lump cover the windscreen a few years back when on a freeway in Canada, change of underwear time

[m8internet]

a conviction for "driving without due care and consideration for other road users"

I've never heard of that charge or conviction, perhaps it should be "careless driving" as that can cover "just about anything else"