Better make sure that your car has its snow brush, scraper, and de-icing spray ready to go! On October 20, 2009, New Jersey's then-Governor Corzine signed into law some amendments to New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Code that create a new offense of operating a motor vehicle with accumulated snow or ice .
This includes all areas of the vehicle, such as hood, trunk, windows and windshield. Police are now able to stop vehicles with accumulated snow and ice that are being operated on a street or highway when the officer feels that the vehicle poses a danger to persons or property.
We have all seen situations while driving in winter where cars piled with snow have had chunks break off and fly through the air, so this law is definitely aimed at a serious hazard. Although it doesn't carry any points, there is a daily fine of between $25 and $75. Drive safely!
The Ticket Could Lead to Bigger Problems
Any time you give the police probable cause to pull you over, you run the risk of more problems. What if your driver's license is expired or has been suspended? What if you forgot to reregister your car or your insurance has lapsed? You want to take care of these problems before you are pulled over, not after.
So What If I Get a Ticket?
If you have received a ticket in southern New Jersey, please feel free to call me at 856-432-4113 or contact me through this site to schedule an appointment for a free consultation in my Woodbury office. If you are out of state or out of the area, this can be done by phone
If you are looking for more information on New Jersey's traffic laws, then download my free book, A Guide to Driving Legally in NJ, and Surviving Traffic Court If You Don't.
