As winter’s chill begins to bite, Canberrans are now being warned of a whole new ice-cold threat – fines for frozen windscreens.
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ACT Policing warned motorists on Wednesday against driving with ice or frost that is still visible on windscreens as it could be a bookable offence.
Officer-in-Charge of Traffic Operations Sergeant Rod Anderson said drivers were legally obliged to take the time to defrost their cars before getting on the road.
“Anyone leaving their vehicles out in sub-zero temperatures experienced in Canberra recently must take the time to defrost their windows and mirrors before heading off on their journey,” Sergeant Anderson said.
Police warned frost and ice on the windows and windscreen reduce visibility and intensify glare, posing a serious risk for road users.
“It’s actually an offence to drive a vehicle if your vision, to the front or rear is obstructed. If police pull you over with ice, or any other object obstructing your vision, you can be fined $80,” Sergeant Anderson said.
“It’s just a matter of taking a bit of extra time to make sure car’s safe. If you can’t garage your car overnight get up 10 minutes earlier, pour lukewarm (never hot) water over your vehicle and make sure your demisters are functioning properly before you leave.”
Last year a woman was fined for “driving a vehicle without clear view” after she ran up the back of an ACTION bus with a frosted-up windscreen.
