Winter storms rolling across Philadelphia and the rest of Pennsylvania bring dangerous highway conditions that challenge even seasoned drivers. While most people remember to clear off their windshields so they can see the road ahead, many forget that heavy accumulation sitting on top of their vehicle poses a severe threat to everyone driving behind them. When a car accelerates on the highway, frozen sheets of ice can detach from the roof and turn into airborne projectiles that slam into trailing traffic.
To combat these winter road hazards, Pennsylvania lawmakers passed Act 90, widely known as Christine’s Law, which added Section 3721 to the state vehicle code. This rule mandates that motorists must make reasonable attempts to clear away accumulated snow and ice from their hoods, trunks, and roofs within 24 hours after a winter storm stops. Police officers no longer have to wait for an accident to occur before taking action; they can pull over any vehicle carrying dangerous snow buildup and issue a $50 fine on the spot.
Fines and Liability for Flying Snow and Ice
Taking time to brush off your car before hitting the road is more than just common courtesy because neglecting this responsibility carries significant legal consequences. When heavy chunks of ice fly off a moving automobile or commercial truck and strike another vehicle or a pedestrian, the impact can easily shatter windshields and cause devastating highway collisions.
If dislodged snow or ice causes serious bodily injury or death, state law imposes statutory fines ranging from $200 to $1,500 for each offense. Beyond traffic citations, negligent drivers who fail to clean off their vehicles can face civil personal injury lawsuits brought by victims seeking financial recovery.
- Law enforcement can stop drivers purely for operating a car covered in dangerous snow buildup.
- Drivers face mandatory fines if dislodged frozen debris hits another motorist or pedestrian and causes serious harm.
- Injured victims can file personal injury claims against negligent drivers to cover hospital bills, lost income, and physical pain.
Clearing off your entire vehicle takes only a few extra minutes, but it protects surrounding families on the highway and saves you from massive personal liability.
Easy Steps to Clean Your Vehicle Safely
Clearing off frozen buildup takes a little extra time on cold mornings, especially when freezing rain creates a solid crust over soft powder. Planning ahead before you start your commute ensures you can clear every surface without rushing through the job.
- Start your car early and turn on front and rear defrosters to warm up the glass surfaces while you brush off the exterior.
- Use a soft snow broom or foam scraper to push heavy powder off the roof, hood, and trunk without scratching your automobile’s paint.
- Clean off all windows, side mirrors, and exterior lights so you maintain complete visibility and ensure other drivers can see your turn signals.
- Keep a bottle of spray de-icer in your trunk to loosen stubborn ice stuck along your windshield wiper blades and door seals.
Following these simple morning habits ensures your vehicle is clear, giving you a sharp view of traffic while keeping you fully compliant with state safety standards.
Support for Winter Collision Victims in Philadelphia
If you or a family member suffered injuries because another driver failed to clear snow off their vehicle, Quinn Law Group is prepared to help you hold them accountable. Founded by Sean Quinn, our Philadelphia firm brings over 20 years of trial and litigation experience representing car accident and wrongful death victims across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. We maintain a reputation for aggressive advocacy and strong case strategy, taking on a client-focused approach with limited caseloads so every client receives personalized attention.
Our team has recovered millions of dollars for clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases, building a history of results in high-stakes litigation that includes multi-million dollar recoveries such as $4.25 million and $2.4 million outcomes. Recognized by Super Lawyers in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey with Top 100 honors, Sean Quinn has also been named among the National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 and Top 100 Trial Lawyers, while earning a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating reflecting professional excellence and client satisfaction. Contact Quinn Law Group today at (215) 360-3666 to discuss your accident and evaluate your legal options.