New Hampshire Drivers Practice Test

What should be done with snow and ice on a vehicle before driving in winter conditions?

1. Leave it as is

2. Clear it off

3. Pack it down

4. Rinse with water

The correct answer is: Clear it off

Before driving in winter conditions, it is essential to clear snow and ice off your vehicle. This is important for several reasons: Firstly, snow and ice left on the roof can slide down while driving, obstructing your visibility and potentially causing accidents. This is particularly hazardous because it can come off the vehicle unexpectedly or impede the driver’s view of the road. Secondly, clearing the windshield, mirrors, lights, and windows is necessary to ensure that the driver has full visibility. Ice or snow covering these critical areas can lead to a lack of awareness of surrounding traffic conditions, increasing the risk of collisions. In addition, removing snow and ice helps to improve the effectiveness of your vehicle's safety features, such as lights and indicators, which must be visible to other road users. Safety regulations in many states, including New Hampshire, often require drivers to ensure their vehicles are clear of snow and ice before driving to avoid fines and reduce hazards on the roads.