Drivers in France can be fined over €400 for snow on car

Motorists driving with snow on their cars risk being fined over €406 based on cumulative fines for offences such as snow falling from the roof, and licence plates and windows not being cleared.

In Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, though, the fine for driving with a thick layer of snow or ice on the roof is a hefty €450, local paper Nice Matin reported.

The fines relating to driving with snow on the car are as follows:

• Licence plate not visible: €90
• View not cleared on the front and sides of the vehicle: €90
• Wing mirrors not cleared: €90
• Indicator lights not cleared: €68
• Snow falling from roof while vehicle is in motion: €68

These fines are cumulative so for a driver caught breaking all these rules, they are liable to face fines up to €406.

Drivers can also face an additional €180 fine if snow falling from their car roof causes an accident. This will also not be covered by insurance.