Police in Northern Ontario are issuing a stark reminder to all drivers as winter tightens its grip: fully clear your vehicle of ice and snow before hitting the road. The warning comes after a frightening incident, shared widely on social media, showed the potentially devastating consequences of neglecting this simple task.
A Viral Video Highlights the Danger
The urgent plea from law enforcement was prompted by a family who took to social media to share their harrowing experience. They posted a video capturing the moment a large chunk of ice dislodged from another vehicle on the road. The projectile flew through the air and struck their windshield with tremendous force, causing it to crack and shatter.
This graphic demonstration served as a powerful public service announcement, illustrating that what some may consider a minor inconvenience is, in fact, a significant public safety hazard. The incident, which occurred in the region, could have resulted in serious injury had the ice penetrated the windshield or caused the driver to lose control.
The Legal and Safety Imperative
Police are emphasizing that clearing a vehicle is not merely a suggestion—it is a legal requirement under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act. Officers can and do issue fines to drivers who fail to remove snow and ice from their car's roof, hood, windows, and lights.
"A clear windshield and windows are for your visibility, but a clean roof and hood are for the safety of everyone else on the road," a police representative stated. When snow or ice flies off a moving vehicle, it can blind following drivers, crack windshields, or cause other motorists to swerve dangerously to avoid being hit. The resulting collisions can lead to property damage, injury, or worse.
How to Ensure Your Vehicle is Safe
Authorities recommend a thorough clearing process every time snow or ice accumulates:
- Start with the roof: Clear all snow from the top of the vehicle first, as this is the most common source of dangerous flying sheets.
- Clear all windows and mirrors: Ensure you have a full, unobstructed view from every angle.
- Brush off hood and trunk: Snow from these areas can blow onto your own windshield when driving.
- Clean all lights and license plates: This ensures you can see and be seen by others.
- Allow extra time: Factor in cleaning time when planning your winter journeys.
The police reminder, underscored by the viral video, is a crucial message for all Canadians navigating winter roads. Taking a few extra minutes to properly clean your vehicle protects not only your own safety but also the lives of fellow drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians sharing the road. As winter continues, this simple act of responsibility remains one of the most effective ways to prevent preventable tragedies.
