Pennsylvania authorities are reminding motorists to fully clear their vehicles following recent winter weather, pointing to "Christine’s Law" as the standard for road safety. Under the state law, also known as Act 90, drivers are prohibited from operating a vehicle if snow or ice obstructs their view through the windshield, side windows, or rear window. Additionally, the law requires drivers to make a "reasonable effort" to remove snow and ice from the roof, hood, and trunk within 24 hours of a storm’s end.
Failure to comply can lead to a proactive $50 fine if a police officer determines the accumulation poses a hazard, even if no snow has fallen off yet. However, the penalties become significantly more severe if dislodged ice or snow strikes another vehicle or pedestrian. In cases where flying "ice missiles" cause serious injury or death, drivers face fines ranging from $200 to $1,500. The law is named in memory of Christine Lambert, who was tragically killed in 2005 when a large piece of ice from a passing truck crashed through her windshield.