MISSOURI/ILLINOIS — St. Louis is expecting another round of snow Tuesday morning through early Wednesday, leaving some drivers wondering how much snow is worth clearing off their vehicles before driving.
The FOX 2 Weather Team reports that some areas south of Union, Missouri, and Festus, Missouri, could receive between eight and 10 inches of snow by early Wednesday. The St. Louis metro is expecting between three and six inches of snow, while north of St. Louis will see anywhere between one and three inches.
Before hitting the streets, consider whether the snow on your vehicle could cause issues between you and the law.
Missouri
While there is no specific statute in Missouri that requires anyone to completely clear off their vehicles, the Missouri State Highway Patrol strongly advises drivers to take safety precautions and clean any snow or ice that could accumulate on cars.
“Take the time to clean snow and ice completely from your vehicle. Allow extra driving time for you to reach your destination at a slow, safe speed. Make sure the windows are completely cleared to ensure visibility,” MSHP advises.
The closest law pertaining to clearing off snow is Missouri statute 304.012, stating, “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.”
Anyone who violates this statute could face a misdemeanor charge.
Illinois
According to Illinois state law, drivers are not legally allowed to drive if snow, ice, moisture, or other materials are blocking their windows or mirrors and obstructing their view.
A driver could be pulled over and issued a fine if an officer determines they are driving with an obstructed view.
Illinois police also remind drivers to wipe snow from headlights and taillights, including roofs, in order to avoid it becoming a projectile while driving.