OPP: Clear snow from car windows or face fines

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are reminding motorists that snow on vehicles can be dangerous in a number of ways – and that those who don’t clear their vehicle windows of snow can face fines.

According to Inspector Mike Francis of the Leeds County OPP, officers will be out patrolling the roads all winter long, ensuring that motorists are obeying the laws.

“Motorists need to remember to adjust their driving habits with the change of weather,” Francis said.

Drivers that do not properly clear snow from their vehicles can face fines under the Highway Traffic Act, which stipulates drivers have to be able to clearly see out of their front window, front side windows, and rear window of their vehicles. The fine is a total of $110, and it is up to police to decide what being able to see “clearly” out of a window means.

“It doesn’t mean scarping a small space in your windshield,” Francis said.

The OPP are urging motorists to remove snow from their vehicles rather than putting themselves and others at risk. Clearing snow from the roof of your vehicle is also important to ensure blowing snow doesn’t affect visibility for other drivers.