Drivers warned they could face £2,500 fine for failing to clear snow properly from their car's ROOF

Drivers have been told they could face a massive £2,500 fine if they fail to fully remove snow from their car's roof.

With Arctic conditions sweeping the country, motorists have been warned that they must keep their windscreens and wing mirrors clear of ice and frost at all times.

But few people realise that driving with snow on the roof of your vehicle could land you in ever deeper trouble - and out of pocket to the tune of £2.5k, as well as at risk of three penalty points.

This is because of snow falls on your windscreen while driving or flies into the path of another car, drivers could be penalised for such offences as 'driving without due consideration' or 'using a motor vehicle in a dangerous condition’.

Not clearing frost or snow from you windscreen - which creates a safety risk - could also land you with a fine and three penalty points.

The Highway Code stipulates that if driving in adverse weather conditions you must, by law, be able to see out of every glass panel in your vehicle.

This is supported by the section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988, meaning it is a legal requirement to have a clear view of the road ahead before you set off.

Insurance firm Comparethemarket said: "When it’s icy or snowy, drivers need to make sure their windows and mirrors are clear and demisted, their lights are clean, and that their number plates are clearly visible and legible before they set off.

“It’s also important to remove any snow from the top of the car, as this could fall off into the path of other road users or block the view from the front or back windscreen."

Drivers were previously warned about an £80 fine for clearing snow and frost in the ‘wrong way’ by leaving their engine running.

Julie Daniels, from the car insurance team at Comparethemarket, urged drivers to take steps to ensure their cars are winter ready.

She said: "It’s essential that drivers stick to the rules of the road all-year-round, but staying alert and in control of the vehicle is especially important during winter, where the colder weather can present additional hazards.

"Checking that your tyres have good pressure and enough tread for grip, topping your screenwash with a formula containing antifreeze, and making sure that your battery is well-maintained are a few things that can be done in preparation.”