In the heart of winter in Victoria, where the snow blankets our vehicles in a frozen embrace, there’s a common oversight that poses serious risks on the road—the failure to properly clear snow from our cars before driving.
It’s no secret that we’re not very accustomed to the blanket of white Victoria is currently covered in.
Over the past couple days, the entire city has become a veritable winter wonderland, which is indeed wonderful—but can also make getting where you need to go difficult.
Transportation during winter conditions can be harrowing in itself, which is why it’s so important to remember to do your part when it comes to safety precautions while driving in the snow.
Things like having the proper tires on your vehicle and using caution while taking to the roads are key in these conditions, and some—like clearing your vehicle and windshields of snow and ice—can even earn you a fine if you don’t them.
With the onset of wintery conditions across BC, authorities remind drivers to clear all snow from their vehicle so that their view is not obstructed while driving.
And if you don’t?
It may earn you a $109 ticket and three penalty points under Section 195 (1) (b) of the Motor Vehicle Act, ‘Drive While View Obstructed’.
“In these winter conditions you absolutely need to take extra time before driving to clear snow off your vehicle, so that your view is not obstructed and you are not creating a hazard on the road,” a spokesperson with VicPD told Victoria Buzz during a previous storm.
“Winter conditions are challenging enough without the added dangers created by drivers not taking a few simple steps to protect themselves and all road users.”
In a frightening incident a couple years ago, a pedestrian was struck while crossing a downtown Victoria intersection—and in dashcam footage of the hit-and-run, the vehicle involved could be seen covered in a heavy layer of snow—another stark reminder of the importance of clearing your vehicle of any snow or ice that may be obstructing your view.
So before you venture onto the icy roads of Vancouver Island’s capital, make sure to wipe off the snow from your vehicle—including from hard to reach area’s such as the roof!
