If you’ve ever driven behind a vehicle with snow and ice on the roof and were afraid it might blow off and smash into your car, you’re not alone.
In some states, such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey, it's illegal to drive with snow and ice on your car.
But there is no specific snow removal law for vehicles in Maryland or the District of Columbia, except in DC the police can stop trucks with snow and ice accumulations.
So, the answer is: “No” – the police cannot pull you over in Maryland or the District of Columbia simply because there is snow and ice piled on your car. (But if you drive to Pennsylvania or New Jersey, be careful or you could get ticketed for driving with snow or ice on your car.)
But the police in Maryland can ticket you for an obstruction that “interferes with the clear view of the driver through the windshield."
And it's not safe to drive with snow and ice on your hood. You risk being hurt and damaging your car from large chunks flying up and temporarily blinding you, causing you to swerve and crash or damaging your windshield. The same can happen to other drivers near you from snow and ice on your roof.
Even though it’s a cold job, take time to remove snow and ice from your vehicle before starting out. You’ll increase your safety and those around you and avoid damage to your car.
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