
That Winter Driving Law in Iowa Everyone Forgets About
Depending on which Almanac you follow, the Old Farmer's Almanac or the Farmer's Almanac, you might be bracing for a dry, warm winter in Iowa, or you might be preparing for a cold, wet one.
Is the Cold Here to Stay?
So far, at least in Eastern Iowa, the cold (check!), that is spot on. It's here with a vengeance. We're still waiting on the snow, but it'll be here. When that snow gets here and you're headed out, how do you get that snow off your car?
You let the defrost (if it works) do what work it can, and if there is excess snow, Mother Nature puts it there, she can help take it away. That snow jumps right off, most times when you hit highway speeds. Problem solved, right? Well, not exactly.
What Does Iowa Law Say?
Iowa has laws about the removal of snow and other debris from your vehicle that can make it difficult for you to see. The exact language in the Iowa law states:
"A person shall not drive a motor vehicle equipped with a windshield, side wings, or side or rear windows which do not permit clear vision."

With that said, if you read between the lines, it's mostly the windows. Therefore, we are left to our own devices, right? Again, not exactly. According to the Iowa State Patrol, they could fine you for a snow or ice-covered windshield or snow piled up on your car if it were a contributing factor in an accident. Otherwise, they usually take a hands-off approach.
Is There a Fine Associated with This Iowa Law?
If, for some reason, you are fined for having a windshield or other window obstructed by snow, ice, or some other debris that is deemed too much, it'll cost you. According to We Are Iowa, that ticket will set you back $127.50.
READ MORE: Warming Centers in Linn County
Check out this gallery of how wonderful Iowa is in picture form when it's not negative 20°.
Iowans Show Off Their Most Beautiful Photos of the State
Gallery Credit: Courtlin
Palisades-Kepler State Park December 30, 2024
Gallery Credit: Sloppy Joe
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