You should be aware that N.J.S.A. 39:4-77.1 confers upon New Jersey motorists the affirmative obligation to make a good faith effort to clear all ice and snow from their cars before driving. The statute provides that you may be stopped by a police officer for failing to do so, and you can be fined up to $75.00 for each occurrence.
If snow or ice flies off your car and causes damage or injury to another vehicle or pedestrian, the driver is subject to a fine of up to $1,000.00. Of course, aside from statutory penalties, you could be liable in civil court for damages caused by the flying ice or snow.
This is a no-brainer for police officers- and a good way to generate municipal income. Do yourself a favor- clean off your car before you drive.
