State Senator Re-Introduces Bill for Snow, Ice Removal from Trucks

Announced yesterday, Pennsylvania State Senator Lisa Boscola reintroduced legislation that would require snow and ice to be removed from trucks before driving.

Under the proposed legislation, truck drivers would be required to “make all reasonable efforts” to remove snow and ice from their vehicles and tractor-trailers before driving, according to a news release from Senator Boscola. If the built-up ice or snow on the roof of the truck is determined to potentially “pose a threat to persons or property,” the driver of the vehicle could face a fine between $25 and $75, the news release said.

“Ice dislodged from rapidly moving trucks is very dangerous – and sometimes deadly,” Boscola said in Senate floor remarks on Thursday. “While public awareness outreach is the key to this process, we must underscore the seriousness of this issue with the force of law.”

Current Pennsylvania law only penalizes drivers if ice debris causes serious injury or death, with fines ranging between $200 and $1,000 for each offense. Boscola said her proposed bill would reinforce the current law and deter drivers from leaving snow and ice on their trucks.

The state senator applauded some businesses for constructing snow and ice scraping devices for their trucks and hopes others will follow suit, according to the news release. Her proposed snow and ice removal legislation was prompted by the Christmas Day death of Christine Lambert in 2005, who was hit by an 8-inch piece of ice as she drove to visit her family.

Boscola has reintroduced the proposal each ensuing legislative session.

Visit LehighValleyLive.com to see Coca-Cola Bottling Co.’s truck snow and ice scraper in use.

(Image via Flickr)