Hamburg, PA – Truck Driver Injured After Ice Crashes Into Windshield

HAMBURG, PA (February 24, 2025) – A semi-truck driver was injured after a large chunk of ice shattered his windshield while driving on February 21.

According to news reports, the truck driver was driving on Interstate 78 eastbound when a large chunk of ice flew off a passing tractor trailer in the westbound lanes.

Dash cam video shows the moment the ice crashed into his windshield, causing glass and ice to hit him in the chest and face. He was able to keep control of his truck despite his windshield being shattered.

The driver suffered minor cuts to his hands and face.

Truck Accidents Involving Ice and Snow in Pennsylvania

What many people don’t realize is driving with ice and snow on their vehicles is against the law. According to Pennsylvania Title 75, Section 4524(e) of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, commonly known as Christine’s Law, drivers must make reasonable efforts to remove all ice and snow from their vehicles, with particular attention to the hood, trunk, and roof. The law applies to all vehicles but is especially critical for commercial trucks due to their height and the larger surface area where ice and snow can accumulate.

When ice or snow dislodges from a moving truck, it can create hazardous conditions for other motorists, potentially causing serious accidents, injuries, or fatalities. The danger is particularly acute on highways where higher speeds increase the force of impact when ice chunks break free. These projectiles can shatter windshields, cause drivers to swerve suddenly, or create immediate road hazards that lead to multi-vehicle accidents.

From a liability standpoint, truck drivers and their employers can face significant consequences for failing to clear ice and snow. Penalties under Christine’s Law range from $50 to $1,500 per offense, with higher fines applying when dislodged ice or snow causes death or serious bodily injury to another person. Beyond these criminal penalties, drivers and companies may face civil liability for any accidents, injuries, or property damage caused by falling ice and snow. Insurance companies may also deny coverage for accidents resulting from this negligent behavior, as it constitutes a violation of state law.

Commercial trucking companies should implement strict protocols for ice and snow removal, including providing proper equipment and allocating sufficient time for drivers to clear their vehicles before departures. Safety experts recommend using specialized ice removal systems at trucking facilities, telescoping snow rakes, and other tools designed specifically for large commercial vehicles. The time invested in proper snow and ice removal is minimal compared to the potential consequences of failing to do so, both in terms of legal liability and human safety.

If you were involved in a truck accident in Pennsylvania, you need a team of lawyers who can protect your rights and get you the compensation that you deserve. Contact the Pennsylvania truck accident lawyers at Munley Law today to schedule a free consultation. There is no fee unless we win your case.

Note: Our team of writers uses secondary sources to produce this post, including local and state media and news sources, regional and state police incident reports, social media platforms, and eyewitness accounts about serious accidents in Pennsylvania. For that reason, if you find any information that is not correct, be sure to contact Munley Law as soon as possible so that we can update the post with the most exact information available. A post will be removed upon request. All information in this post is informational and not intended to be considered legal or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business.

Disclaimer: The photos used in this post were not taken at this accident scene. All information in this post is informational and is not intended to be considered legal or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business.