Before setting out on those snowy roads

By Anya Tikka
MILFORD — Drivers can be fined up to $100 for driving without cleaning the snow off their vehicles before setting out, according to State of Pennsylvania.
The regulations are not new. But Ryan Tarkowski from the State Police office explained to the Courier the reasoning behind this timely reminder to the public.
“We want to be proactive this year, because each year we get a lot of questions from the public and reporters," he said. "So we want to make sure the information is out ahead of time.”
To avoid accidents, drivers need to have “a clear, unobstructed, view of the road at all times.” That includes all the windows, front, sides and back.
Is a little bit of snow or ice acceptable?
“It’s at the officers’ discretion who they decide to pull over,” Tarkowski said.
And if you do drive with snow and ice on your windows, “It’s a primary offense,” he said. "That means the police officers can pull a car over.”
A secondary offence means the officers can write a ticket, but only if they’ve pulled the car over for another reason.
The initial fine is $25, but can grow with administration and other possible costs. The fine goes up if falling ice or snow causes an accident, more if it causes “serious bodily injury or death.” In that case, the fine can increase to up to $1,000 for each offense.
The State Police also reminds drivers to have an ice scraper and a snow brush available in their car throughout the winter. And don't warm up your car with the engine idling — not only because it’s against the law, but also because it encourages thieves. They'll know the car is unlocked and take advantage of the opportunity.
Tarkowski said staying safe is relatively simple.
“Drive slowly and keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, and you’re usually okay," he said.
He said motorists can check the weather for frequent updates, for example by visting the state web site www.511pa.com, or by downloading a free 511PA Smartphone app.