Relates to the requirement for motor vehicle operators to clear accumulated snow and ice

BILL NUMBER:S7765

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to requiring vehicles to be cleared of accumulated snow and ice

Purpose or general idea of bill

To facilitate safer roadways in the State.

Summary of provisions

§ 1: Creates a violation of the VTL for failing to remove accumulated snow or ice from a motor vehicle where the snow or ice poses a threat to persons or property while vehicle is being operated. Violators will pay seventy five dollars.

Creates a violation of the VTL if accumulated snow or ice on a motor vehicle causes injury or property damage. Noncommercial drivers are subject to a fine between $200 and $1,000. Commercial drivers are subject to a fine between $500 and $1,200.

Exceptions. These violations will not apply during a period of snow or if the period began and continued during the operation of the vehicle, when the vehicle is parked or to emergency vehicles.

§ 2: Effective Date

Justification

Snow or ice falling from cars while on slick and busy roads can lead to tragedy. The snow and ice could lead to impaired visibility and or significant property damages such as, but not limited to, severely cracked windshields. The two other tri-state area states, Connecticut and New Jersey have passed laws requiring snow and ice be removed from cars and it is time New York follows suit.

Prior legislative history

New Bill.

Fiscal implications for state and local governments

None known.

Effective date

This bill shall take effect immediately.