The Saanich Police are reminding drivers to take the time to ensure their vehicle windows are completely cleared of frost, ice and condensation before heading out of the road.
On Sunday December 15, 2019 around 8:45 am a Saanich Police officer was stopped on Tillicum Road near Gorge Road West when he was rear-ended by a car heading northbound. When the officer got out to speak to the driver, he saw that the front windshield was completely covered in ice. Once he walked up to the car, he could see the windshield was also completely covered in condensation buildup on the inside.
“This collision was completely preventable,” said Cst. Markus Anastasiades. “It takes less than five minutes to clear the ice and defrost the interior windows of a vehicle, and taking those preventative steps are just one way in keeping our roads safe. Keeping an ice scrapper, squeegee and a small towel inside your vehicle are recommended.”
The driver was issued a violation ticket for Drive While View Obstructed, which carried a fine of $109. The officer received minor injuries and is currently recovering at home.
Cst. Markus Anastasiades
Public Information and Communications Officer