To the Editor:

As I write this letter two days after the first accumulated snow of the year, a large number of vehicles are driving that still have a significant amount of snow on them!

I was under the impression that there was a state law concerning snow removal on vehicles, and as I researched this, I found I was in error as there is no law against driving with snow and ice on your car.

According to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, there is no specific law that establishes fines for uncleared snow or ice. However, under reckless driving law 1212, an argument can be made that ice falling onto another car could fall under that.

The law states:

“Reckless driving shall mean driving or using any motor vehicle, motorcycle or any other vehicle propelled by any power other than muscular power or any appliance or accessory thereof in a manner which unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of the public highway, or unreasonably endangers users of the public highway. Reckless driving is prohibited. Every person violating this provision shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.”

I know it’s cold in the morning and it takes time, but please remove all the snow from your vehicle. I’m positive we have all been hit by snow or ice from the vehicle in front of us. When driving behind tractor trailers, big vans, or buses, be aware that they don’t have efficient means to remove snow, so allow extra space and drive defensively.

Craig Bousquet

Guilderland