Police issued a warning to all drivers last year that they would fine any motorists who fail to remove loose snow from their vehicles before setting out on their journeys. 


Why? You may ask... Well the reason is that snow flying off vehicles roofs and car bonnets can cause an obstruction to the visibility of other road users and therefore is a significant danger. Ever had plumes of snow or hardened chunks of snow/ice come flying at you as you are driving down a motorway from the car in front? We have here at ACC UK LTD and its pretty scary we can tell you! So if you are going to venture out in your car after significant snowfall this winter remember to leave some extra time before your journey to properly clear your entire vehicle of snow. It is worth noting that if this snow is left on the car as temperatures plummet it will turn to ice and will take even longer to clear from your car for your next journey and will possibly cause significant damage to the car behind you and potential injury to the car driver behind you if it comes flying off your car and hits their vehicle.


Another common reason for police to pull over motorists in the winter is the visibility of their number plates. It is vital that your registration plates are still visible otherwise you could be fined; so make sure that any dirt (especially when the gritters are out in force) is removed before driving.


The same is true when it comes to your headlights which are of increased importance in the dark and potentially foggy conditions associated with winter. 

Make sure that you can see and also be seen by ensuring all exterior car lights are free of dirt and snow. It's always handy to carry a pack of wet wipes/baby wipes in the glove box so that you can wipe your lights down before you commence your journey. 

Remember, just because we know where we are going it doesn't mean other road users do so use your lights/indicators in the appropriate manner. Happy Driving!