On cold and frosty mornings, when you're rushing trying to get to work or get the school run done, it can be tempting to just de-ice enough area for you to see, and then head off.
But driving without properly clearing your windscreen of snow and ice is illegal and could land you with a fixed penalty notice, warns the RAC.
It's not enough to just clear the ice from the driver's side of the windscreen. You have to de-ice the entire area – and then use the windscreen wipers once the ice has melted.
The RAC adds: "The driver must by law have a full view of the road and traffic ahead of the motor vehicle, so it is well worth taking the extra time to fully clear your windscreen and your mirrors too."
Failing to do so could land you with a £60 fine and three points on your licence, because the Highway Code rule 229 states that all your windows need clearing and demisting.
You also risk a fine of up to £1,000 if snow covers your registration plate.
This is because it must always be readable by the police and Automatic Plate Recognition Cameras.
In addition, forgetting to brush the snow off your windows and roof of the car can land you a £60 fine, because it could be dangerous for others.
John Wilmot, CEO at LeaseLoco said: "According to section 229 of the Highway code drivers must remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users.
"So we recommend removing snow from all of your cars exterior, including the roof, to avoid this £60 fine and three penalty points, as well as potentially causing a huge hazard for other drivers."
Aside from using a traditional scraper, there are several ways to speed up the process of clearing your windows.
Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, said: "For example, use three parts vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle. Vinegar is a natural antifreeze – even one quick spray will begin to break down the ice on your windows.
"Also, try putting warm water into a sandwich bag, seal it and drag the bag slowly across the face of the window. This is a much safer alternative than pouring boiling water on a windscreen that can fracture the glass."
He also recommends using salt and dish soap in warm water, which also have defrosting properties.
Graham added: "As tempting as it is, you shouldn't leave the car running and let the aircon defrost the car. Not only is it harmful to the environment, but it's also illegal. If the police catch you leaving your car idling, you face fines of up to £40."
How do you defrost your car? Let us know in the comments below.
