Motoring lawyer Nick Freeman has warned that drivers may be punished for relying on “porthole vision”. He said motorists who failed to “leave a gap big enough” could break driving laws for leaving a vehicle in a “dangerous condition”.
Mr Freeman said: “It’s annoying to wait until the windscreen clears when you’re in a hurry, it’s freezing cold and the glass is frosted over.
“But it [is] an offence to drive without properly defrosting or demisting your vehicle and the police can fine you for relying on ‘porthole vision’ – where drivers leave a gap big enough to see out of but not the whole windscreen.
“Using a vehicle with parts or accessories in a ‘dangerous condition’ could result in a fine of £60 and three penalty points.
“Though the offences and consequences could be greater if you cause an accident.”
READ MORE: Drivers warned of de-icer solutions that could cause vehicle damage
This might offer some temporary relief but is unlikely to be able to clear the entire glass windscreen.
They said: “If you’re hurrying to get to work or do the school run, it can be tempting to drive off as soon as the ice has cleared a little.
“But this could dangerously obstruct your view of the road if there’s still ice or mist on your windshield.
“Not everyone bothers to clear all the ice off before they drive off, instead leaving enough of a window to see through.
READ MORE: Petrol and diesel drivers warned of new Clean Air Zones in 2023
“There’s nothing worse than having to rush a de-icing job as you risk damaging your vehicle.”
Experts at Confused.com echoed the AA’s comments urging drivers to avoid stressful mornings.
Alec Kindred, car insurance expert at Confused.com, said: “Now that it’s getting colder again, remembering to leave enough time to de-ice your car before setting off is a must.
“Not only do we need to take extra care on slippery roads to stay safe, drivers need to be aware that driving with limited vision, caused by ice or condensation on your windscreen, could land you with a £60 fine and three points on your licence.”
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