Ice can strike at any time, and sometimes that warning is literal. Northern states such as Minnesota and Vermont experience icy storms and freezing temperatures well into spring earlier this year, and that ice can be dangerous. Because of rapid temperature fluctuations and bumpy roads, several passenger vehicles and even a police squad car have been hit by large chunks of ice and snow flying off of semi trucks which destroyed their windshields. Here are three reasons to always double-check your truck for ice or snow and to clear it off before you get on the road.
1. Ice impairs visibility.
Ice is very rarely perfectly clear, and a buildup of ice on your windshield and mirrors is dangerous. It is even more dangerous when it starts to melt and turn into slushy, blurrier ridges. Whether it’s winter or you’re caught in a flash freeze in the mountains, always check your windshield before you get settled in. If there are any signs of ice, you may have ice buildup on the rest of your truck.
2. You are liable for ice-related damage.
If ice falls off your truck and directly hits someone else’s vehicle, you can be found responsible. Passenger to passenger car ice can be just as big of a liability, but it’s harder for people to track and report. Your semi truck, on the other hand, has several visible identification numbers and phone numbers as points of contact.
3. Doing otherwise might be a crime.
Depending on the state you’re driving through, letting ice and snow blow off of your car is a crime. More and more states are beginning to officially recognize the dangers. Minnesota, for example, considers it littering and a misdemeanor.
Don’t be behind the wheel of the semi truck that destroys a police car windshield. Go to J.E.B. Insurance Services, LLC, for more safety procedures and tips that can keep your company’s liabilities low and surrounding cars safe. We provide commercial truck insurance in the states of Florida, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska.
