Brits issued with warning about risk of driving to work with snow on your car

Brits have been issued with a warning as they gear up to get back to work despite the snow today (5 January).

Weather warnings are in place for many parts of the UK as the Met Office warned of disruption to travel this morning. With plenty of us waking up to snow covering our driveways, it’s also looking pretty icy out there.

So, it’s worth taking a bit of extra time to check on your journey today if you’re planning on braving the elements to go to your first day back in the office.

And if your mode of transport is driving, then you’re certainly going to need to set some extra time aside.

Not only do you need to go a bit easier on the roads and make sure your visibility is also clear, but you need to be conscious of any snow on your car.

Snow and ice warnings are in place. (Ian Forsyth/Getty Images)

Yep, it turns out there’s a bit of a risk attached to driving around with snow sitting on your car, even if you think that little pile on the roof isn’t a problem.

It’s not like it’s illegal to be driving around like this, but it’s more that there’s an issue with how much might end up falling off your car.

So, the Highway Code lays out that if you’re deciding to drive in adverse weather conditions, then you have to be able to see out of every glass panel in your vehicle – that’s the law.

And Section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988 supports this too, as it means it’s a legal requirement to have a clear view of the road before setting off.

Then, rule 228 of the Highway Code adds on that you must 'remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users'.

Failure to follow this could land motorists with a £60 fine and three penalty points.

You don't want to end up with a fine. (Getty Stock Image)

So, basically, while it’s not explicitly illegal to drive with snow on your car, it’s a breach of the Highway Code and fineable, as you could be creating hazards for other drivers.

If you are driving in the snow and icy weather conditions today, it’s recommended to leave a greater distance between you and the vehicle ahead, reduce your speed dramatically and keep a bit of a winter driving kit for emergencies.

Keep some warm clothes on hand in case, and touch wood this doesn’t happen, you end up having to wait roadside for assistance.