With winter snowfalls on the way, PennDOT reminds motorists to clear snow and ice from their vehicles or face the possibility of a fine, or worse.
Under Pennsylvania law, if snow or ice is dislodged or falls from a moving vehicle and strikes another vehicle or pedestrian causing death or serious bodily injury, the operator of the source vehicle is subject to a fine of $200 to $1,000 for each offense.
State law also requires that headlights be turned on whenever windshield wipers are on. When driving in times of limited visibility, motorists should keep their lights on the low beams, especially during heavy snowfall.
Because weather and road conditions can worsen abruptly during the winter, motorists should always check the forecast before traveling. Road conditions for interstates and some limited-access highways are available by calling 511 from home or while stopped in a safe location, or by visiting www.511pa.com.
For winter driving tips and advice, visit www.penndot.gov and look under Winter Operations and Safety.