If caught out at the wrong time, road users could be slapped with punishments in a cause for concern for cash-strapped individuals this weekend.
Experts at the RAC explained: “As for the snow on the roof, while, again, there is no law stating it is illegal to drive with snow on your roof, if it falls off onto your windscreen while driving or flies into the path of another car then you could be penalised for such offences as ‘driving without due consideration’ or ‘using a motor vehicle in a dangerous condition’ – again, not worth the risk.”
Driving with snow covering a windscreen is likely to land motorists a £60 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points on their licence.
However, getting behind the wheel of a vehicle thought to be in a “dangerous condition” is significantly worse, with fines of up to £2,500 likely.
Road users issued this charge could also be it with three penalty points on their licence and face the prospect of a discretionary ban.
Rule 229 of the Highway Code states motorists must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows before setting off.
Halfords’ motoring expert Andy Turbefield stressed just four inches of wind-packed snow can weigh a staggering 262 pounds.
According to the experts, this is the equivalent of two standard washing machines on the roof.
Not only will this make cars “top-heavy and unstable” to control, but this vast weight-changing position while travelling could cause serious problems.
If it lands on the windscreen mid-journey, it could become impossible for road users to clear the snow quickly.
Andy said: “While a roofbox is securely held in place, snow can dislodge while driving. If this happens during a corner, the weight of the vehicle could immediately change by 119kg, destabilising the car and potentially leading to an accident.
“What’s more, during braking, the entire mound of snow could tip forward onto the windscreen, completely obscuring the view of the driver.
“It could also be a danger to other road users if it ends up on someone else’s vehicle, potentially breaking their windscreen.”
