Removal of ice and snow from motor vehicles

Every driver of a motor vehicle must ensure sufficient visibility to enable safe driving before starting to drive. Therefore, not only the windshield must be cleared of snow and ice, but also the other windows.

Caution

Merely clearing a small "viewing window" on the windshield is punishable by law and may also have insurance consequences in the event of an accident.

In addition, every driver of a motor vehicle is obliged to clear the lights and license plates of the vehicle (and any trailer towed by it) of snow and ice. License plates must be fully visible and readable.

Snow or ice should also be removed from the roof of the car before driving, as it can come off while driving.

Warming up the engine before driving is expressly forbidden and may be punished.

Legal basis

section 102 of the Kraftfahrgesetz (KFG)

Last update: 19 March 2024

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