| Text Release Date and Time: 2010-01-25 08
January 25th to 31st - Obstructed View
For many years automotive engineers have worked carefully to design cars that
enhance the driver's view of the road. They have increased the glass area of
the cars, buses, and trucks as much as possible without weakening the physical
structure of the vehicle. Side windows and rear windows are large, strong and
clear. Mirrors are made large and strategically placed to assure maximum
viewing. The engineer's goal is to give the driver 360 degrees of unobstructed
vision by using glass and mirrors. Any obstruction of a driver's vision
creates a hazard and increases his risk.
Living in Medicine Hat during a Canadian winter means that our cars are often
covered with ice, snow or both. When this happens it is important to take
the time to properly clean all of the ice and snow off of the ENTIRE car, not
just the windshield. If you leave it you could cause an accident or end
up getting a ticket.
The Use of the Highway and Rules of the Road Regulations, Sec 80 states:
A person shall not drive a vehicle on a highway if
(a) the view through the windshield or windows of the vehicle is so
obscured by mud, frost, steam or any other thing so as to make the driving of
the
vehicle hazardous or dangerous, or
(b) an ornament, device or thing is placed in or on the vehicle so that it
may obstruct that person's view.
The specified penalty for failing to abide by this regulation is $115.00.
To remind drivers of the importance of ensuring they have good visibility when
driving around the city, the Medicine Hat Police Service safety messaging
trailer will be displaying the message "Obscured Windshield - What You're Not
Seeing Could Kill You". This message will be displayed between January 2
5th to the 31st.
Anyone interested in providing input on future safety messages to be displayed
on the MHPS safety messaging trailer or identify road safety issues thatare of
concern to them are encouraged to provide their input.
For more information please contact:
Sgt. Stacey Fishley
Supervisor i/c Traffic Unit
Medicine Hat Police Service
403-529-8471 |
Office of the Chief
