HOMER, New York (WBNG) – On Friday, Jan. 30, a driver on Interstate 81 in Homer had their windshield shattered Friday when a slab of ice flew off a tractor-trailer.
The driver was not seriously injured in the incident, but officials say it could have been much worse.
“If we had a large snowstorm or a lot of snow that has fallen and you haven’t cleaned it off, it’s very important that you clean off your car so you’re not a danger to either yourself or other motorists,” New York State Trooper Aga Tinker said.
Gordon Dusinberre, owner of Northside Auto, said the dangers increase significantly at highway speeds.
“Someone is going down the road, their car is nice and clean, and a big blast of snow hits them in the windshield, and you’re traveling 50, 60 miles an hour, that could be really dangerous,” Dusinberre said.
Officials said the driver in Friday’s incident was fortunate to avoid serious injury.
“That person is very, very lucky that they weren’t seriously injured,” Tinker said.
Mechanics recommend checking for ice buildup around wheels and fenders, which can restrict turning and damage suspension or body parts.
“Ice can get in and stuck behind the wheels, behind the fenders and stuff restricting your turn. That could cause damage to suspension parts or even body parts of the fender or something like that if it binds up too much,” Dusinberre said.
Dusinberre also recommends checking tires and ensuring vehicles have winter or all-season tires. He said drivers should also clear frozen windshield wipers to prevent damage to the wipers or motor.
