Motorists across the UK are being urged to remove snow and ice from their vehicles ahead of a predicted cold snap this weekend. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to £2,500 as authorities enforce safety regulations for driving in adverse weather conditions. Bryn Brooker, Head of Road Safety at Nextbase, highlighted the importance of clearing all accumulated snow and ice before hitting the road.
The Met Office has forecast significant snowfall for various regions, including parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, and central and southern England, on Friday and Saturday. Amber and yellow weather warnings have been issued, marking the onset of the first major freeze of February 2026.
Safety Measures and Penalties
Driving in snowy conditions is manageable if proper precautions are taken, but neglecting to clear vehicles can pose risks for all road users. Brooker emphasized, “Before embarking on your journey, take the time to remove all snow and ice from your vehicle’s windows. A clear line of sight is crucial for safely navigating wintry conditions and will keep you from a £2,500 fine and three penalty points on your licence for ‘using a vehicle in a dangerous condition’.”
The Met Office has specifically warned that amber weather alerts for snow will be in effect in northern and eastern Scotland from 12:00 on Friday until 12:00 on Saturday. Meteorologists predict that some areas could see snowfall of up to 30-40 cm in the hills if blizzard conditions develop over the 24-hour period.
Neil Armstrong, Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, noted that the cold spell is not expected to end soon, suggesting that wintry hazards will persist into the following week. Transport Scotland has also cautioned that the cold weather will negatively affect driving conditions in regions covered by the yellow warning.
Legal Implications of Neglecting Vehicle Safety
Bryn Brooker further acknowledged the importance of clearing snow from the roof of vehicles. “Remove all accumulated snow from the roof to prevent it from falling off onto the road, creating hazards for other drivers,” he stated. While driving with snow on a vehicle is not explicitly illegal, police have the authority to issue fines. If caught, motorists could face a £60 fine and three penalty points for driving with snow on their vehicle, as outlined in section 229 of the Highway Code.
As the UK prepares for the cold weather, drivers are encouraged to prioritize safety by ensuring their vehicles are properly cleared of snow and ice. Taking these precautions not only helps in avoiding penalties but also enhances overall road safety during challenging winter conditions.
