Is it legal for Missourians to drive with car windows covered by snow or ice?
Kansas City residents found their cars buried in snow after 11 inches came down Sunday, Jan. 5, according to the National Weather Service in Kansas City. Crews are still working to clear snow and ice from roads after blizzard conditions.
“Snow is still moving out, but conditions won’t improve quickly,” the Missouri Department of Transportation said on X on Tuesday morning. “If you saw snow (or) ice yesterday, avoid travel today. Crews are working hard, but cleanup will take time in these conditions.”
As crews work to clear the roads, drivers are also working to get their cars cleared from the snow and ice accumulated on top of their hoods.
Those who must travel for emergencies are likely to encounter wind gusts blowing snow on the road, which will continue to limit visibility, MoDOT said in a press release, making driving risky.
But if those who have to drive to get to work, can they drive with snow on top of their car and covering their windshield?
Here’s what the law says in Missouri.
Are Missouri drivers legally required to clear snow from their car?
The Missouri State Highway Patrol says drivers should take the time to clean snow and ice completely from vehicles, but there is no statewide statute that says they must do so.
However, section 304.012 states that drivers are obligated to drive safely and not endanger themselves or anyone else on the road.
“Every person operating a motor vehicle on the roads and highways of this state shall drive the vehicle in a careful and prudent manner and at a rate of speed so as not to endanger the property of another or the life or limb of any person and shall exercise the highest degree of care,” the law says.
Drivers are also required to secure any loads on top of their vehicle, according to Missouri statute 307.010. Snow or ice that sits on top of a car while someone is driving counts as such a load, since wind can knock the snow off.
Missouri holds drivers responsible for any debris that flies from the car and damages another vehicle. Fines may vary depending on the severity of the situation.
