One Vancouver driver thought he’d gotten around that pesky task of clearing the snow from his windshield.
Police pulled over a vehicle this week on West Fourth Avenue after seeing that the windshield was mostly covered in snow. When questioned by the officer, the driver said it was OK because he had raised his seat up so he could see over the snow.
“NOT OK!” the department tweeted, along with a photo of the windshield in question. “The fines start at $81 if your windshield obstructs your vision.”
VPD OFFICER: Sir, you need to clear your windshield before you drive. You MUST have an unobstructed view of the roadway.
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) February 20, 2018
DRIVER: It’s ok officer, I raised up my seat so that I can see over the snow!
❌ NOT OK! The fines start at $81 if your windshield obstructs your vision. #VPD pic.twitter.com/pt9jycsqst
“It’s really important that drivers take the time to ensure all of their windows are cleared off before driving,” Const. Jason Doucette said in an email. “Even the smallest patch of snow, ice or condensation left on a window could obscure the driver’s vision of a pedestrian or cyclist.”
He said that drivers also need to make sure side windows and mirrors are clear as well.
“Failing to do so can lead to unsafe lane changes and possible collisions.”
Doucette added that the $81 fine relates to any window left uncleared.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility,” he said. “We are also reminding pedestrians and cyclists that stopping could be an issue for vehicles in snowy/icy weather. Not only do we recommend making eye contact with a driver, but wait until they are fully stopped before stepping off the curb. Unexpected black ice could prevent a vehicle from stopping safely.”
The wintery weather is expected to continue over the next few days. Environment Canada is forecasting a chance of flurries for Metro Vancouver starting Wednesday morning with snow or rain over the next several days.
@JessicaEKerr
