With a new law in effect this month and the first rain of 2007 expected Friday, drivers should be prepared to switch on their headlights when they turn on their windshield wipers.
The new law requires that any time a driver’s windshield wipers are on constantly or intermitently for conditions such as rain or snow, headlights must be on as well. It also requires that headlights are used during periods of low visiblity such as fog or mist.
Motorists who do not comply with the law could face a fine of $25, but with fees and other associated costs, the penalty would approach $100.
The state Department of Transportation also reminds drivers that snow and ice should be completely cleared from vehicles this winter.
A law that was enacted in May stated that if snow or ice falling from a car causes serious bodily injury or death, the driver can be fined.
“We’ve urged motorists to remove all ice and snow from their vehicles before traveling for years. Not only for their own safety, but for the safety of all motorists,” said PennDOT Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E. “We hope motorists will take this advice all the more seriously now that the new law is in place.”
Violators of the ice and snow law could face a fine of $200 to $1,000 for each offense.