Winter driving in Canada brings enough challenges without adding unnecessary risks. Snow-covered vehicles are a common sight during the colder months, but failing to properly clear off your car isn’t just inconvenient; it’s dangerous and a ticketable offence.
See Clearly, Drive Safely
Visibility is one of the most important factors in safe winter driving. Snow and ice on your windshield, windows, and mirrors limit your ability to see the road, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Even a small patch of frost can create a dangerous blind spot. Taking a few extra minutes to fully clear all windows ensures you have a complete view in every direction.
Be Seen by Other Motorists
Other drivers rely on your headlights, taillights, and brake lights to anticipate your movements. Snow buildup can dramatically reduce their brightness, making your vehicle harder to see in already low-visibility conditions like snowstorms, fog, or at night. Removing snow and ice from lights helps keep everyone safer.
Protect Other Drivers From Flying Snow
Driving with snow piled on your roof, hood, or trunk can pose a hazard to others. As your vehicle warms up or gains speed, snow and ice sheets can fly off, hitting vehicles behind you or causing them to swerve. This blow-off snow can lead to collisions and is easily preventable by clearing your vehicle before you head out.
In Ontario, It’s a Ticketable Offence
Driving with snow or ice on your windshield or any side or rear windows that prevents you from seeing clearly is illegal under
Section 74 of the Highway Traffic Act. This offence typically carries a fine of $110 plus a surcharge.
Dangerous Accumulation: It’s also illegal to drive with snow or ice on your vehicle if it could slide or blow off and endanger other motorists. Fines range from $100 to $1,000 for commercial vehicles and $50 to $500 for passenger vehicles.
Blocked Lights, Plates, or Mirrors: If snow, ice, or frost covers your headlights, taillights, mirrors, or license plate, you may receive an additional fine.
Insecure Load: Snow left on the roof of your vehicle may be considered an insecure load. If it’s not properly removed, you could face penalties under this offence as well.
Plan for an Extra Few Minutes
If you don’t have access to a garage or covered parking, winter mornings can add to your day, but adding a few extra minutes to your routine to remove snow is well worth it. Use a proper snow brush and scraper to clean:
- All windows
- Windshield and rear window
- Headlights, taillights, brake lights
Side mirrors
- Hood, roof, and trunk
A clean, snow-free vehicle improves visibility, boosts safety for everyone on the road, and helps you avoid fines in some areas.
Winter Driving Is Hard Enough, Don’t Make It Harder
A fully cleared vehicle is an essential part of winter road safety. Taking the time to do it right protects you, your passengers, and everyone else who shares the road.