It’s no secret that we’re not very accustomed to the blanket of white Victoria is currently covered in.
Over the past couple days, the entire city has become a veritable winter wonderland, which is indeed wonderful—but can also make getting where you need to go difficult.
Transportation during winter conditions can be harrowing in itself, which is why it’s so important to remember to do your part when it comes to safety precautions while driving in the snow.
Things like having the proper tires on your vehicle and using caution while taking to the roads are key in these conditions, and some – like clearing your vehicle and windshields of snow and ice – can even earn you a fine if you don’t them.
With the onset of wintery conditions across BC, authorities remind drivers to clear all snow from their vehicle so that their view is not obstructed while driving.
Planning to drive today? Give yourself extra time this morning to clear off ALL the snow on your vehicle & to get to your destination. Use caution & drive to winter conditions. Be safe! #SnowDay
— Victoria Police (@vicpdcanada) January 6, 2022
And if you don’t?
It may earn you a $109 ticket and three penalty points under Section 195 (1) (b) of the Motor Vehicle Act, ‘Drive While View Obstructed’.
“In these winter conditions you absolutely need to take extra time before driving to clear snow off your vehicle, so that your view is not obstructed and you are not creating a hazard on the road,” VicPD spokesman Cst. Cam MacIntyre told Victoria Buzz during a storm last January.
“Winter conditions are challenging enough without the added dangers created by drivers not taking a few simple steps to protect themselves and all road users.”
In a frightening incident last December, a pedestrian was struck while crossing a downtown Victoria intersection—and in dashcam footage of the hit-and-run, the vehicle involved could be seen covered in a heavy layer of snow—another stark reminder of the importance of clearing your vehicle of any snow or ice that may be obstructing your view.
