01/22/2026
With the winter storm that is predicted to arrive over the weekend, The Granville Township Police Dept would like to offer a few reminders. Please drive cautiously if you need to be out. With the snow predicted to be heavy at times Pen-Dot will need time to clear the roadways, so if you do not need to be out driving please stay home. Watch for snow drifts. Make sure your vehicle has half tank of gas, your cell phone is charged, throw a blanket in your car in the case of being stranded. Please check on your neighbors, especially the ederly. Be safe. Also a reminder to clear snow and ice from your vehicle. Pennsylvania's "Christine's Law" requires drivers to remove snow and ice from their vehicles (hood, roof, trunk, windows, lights) within 24 hours after a storm ends, or before driving if sooner, to prevent "icy missiles" from harming others; violations start with a $50 fine but can reach $1,500 if serious injury occurs, stemming from a fatal 2005 accident.
Key Requirements of Christine's Law
Clear Everything: Remove snow and ice from all surfaces, including the roof, hood, trunk, windshield, rear window, side windows, lights, and license plates.
24-Hour Rule: You must clear your vehicle within 24 hours after snow or ice stops falling, or before you drive, whichever comes first.
"Reasonable Efforts": Drivers must make a reasonable effort to clear all accumulated snow and ice.
Penalties for Violations
Initial Fine: A base fine of $50 for each offense if caught by police.
Serious Injury/Death: Fines can escalate to $200-$1,500 if dislodged snow/ice causes serious bodily harm or death.
Background
Origin: The law is named for Christine Lambert, who died in 2005 when ice flew off a truck, through her windshield, and struck her.
Purpose: To prevent deadly incidents where large chunks of ice become dangerous projectiles on roadways.
