Two people were taken to a trauma center Tuesday night after a large piece of ice crashed through their windshield on Interstate 95, according to first responders in Havre de Grace.
The Susquehanna Hose Company, which services the Harford County city, wrote at 8:36 p.m. that their crews had just finished clearing the scene at the Millard E. Tydings Bridge, a 5,000-foot truss connecting Cecil and Harford counties over the Susquehanna River.
The company said that two people were transported to a health care facility in Delaware for their injuries, though it was not clear how severe they were.
“As a reminder, clean all snow and ice off your vehicle, prior to traveling, and increase your following distance behind high profile vehicles that may be unable to clear their tops,” the company wrote.
Political and public safety leaders across Maryland have urged residents to stay off the roads following a weekend storm that plopped several inches of snow across the state and country. According to the National Weather Service, Cecil County peaked as having 7.5 inches of snow Monday, after the height of the precipitation had passed, while Harford County topped out at 10.8 inches.
With their calls to stay home, leaders have also urged anyone who gets behind the wheel to clear their car of snow and ice for the safety of those around them — a plea some lawmakers are looking to make more than a request.
If passed, House Bill 474, also known as the Clear Before You Drive Act, would establish punishments for not removing snow that poses a threat to someone.
As it is currently written, the bill has four or five tiers of fines for noncommercial and commercial vehicles, peaking at $200 and $1,000, respectively, for repeat offenses.
Sponsored by four Democrats from Prince George’s, Montgomery and Charles counties, the bill had its first reading Friday in the House Environment and Transportation Committee. As of Wednesday, it did not have a follow-up hearing scheduled.
When clearing snow from your vehicle, the State Farm insurance company recommends freeing the tailpipe first, as a covered pipe could cause carbon monoxide to build up in the car.
Next, once you’re able to get into the car, turn on the ignition and start running the defroster. This will not only warm up your car but help get the melting process going.
Work to clear the roof, hood and trunk lid with a snow brush while you wait, and then clear the side and rear windows. By doing the windshield last, you’re allowing the defroster more time to melt the ice.
State Farm also suggests drivers and passengers shake off as much snow and moisture from their clothes as they can before entering the car to help prevent foggy windows.
Have a news tip? Contact Luke Parker at [email protected], 410-725-6214, or on X @lparkernews.