Ice Debris Injures Three in Maryland, Prompting Safety Reminders

Lawmakers consider new law to require clearing snow and ice from vehicles before driving.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 8:39pm

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At least three people were injured in Maryland after large chunks of ice flew off vehicles and crashed into other cars, including a sheriff's deputy's patrol vehicle. The incidents have prompted state leaders to remind drivers to fully clear snow and ice from their cars before driving to prevent further accidents.

Why it matters

These types of incidents highlight the serious public safety risks posed by snow and ice debris flying off vehicles at high speeds. With winter weather conditions expected to continue, there are growing calls for new legislation to mandate that drivers remove all snow and ice from their cars before hitting the roads.

The details

On Wednesday, a large piece of ice flew off another vehicle and smashed through the windshield of an Anne Arundel County sheriff's deputy's patrol car on Interstate 97, leaving the deputy with facial and hand lacerations. Two people were also injured on Tuesday when ice crashed through their windshield on Interstate 95 in Havre de Grace. This legislative session, Maryland lawmakers are considering the 'Clear Before You Drive Act' which would fine drivers for not properly clearing snow and ice from their vehicles.

  • On Wednesday, the ice incident involving the sheriff's deputy occurred on Interstate 97.
  • On Tuesday, the ice incident on Interstate 95 in Havre de Grace took place.

The players

Anne Arundel County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency whose deputy was injured when ice struck their patrol car.

Maryland Lawmakers

State legislators who are considering the 'Clear Before You Drive Act' to mandate that drivers remove snow and ice from their vehicles.

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What they’re saying

“Just shocked, couldn't believe it. I mean, we see it often when we're driving behind vehicles, and we see vehicles that have ice or snow piled up, or they don't clean the car off fully, which is always a thought that it's a hazard.”

— Cpl. Angie Hines, Anne Arundel County Sheriff's Office

“We just really want to tell the public to please clean off your vehicle. We are supposed to have snow coming again. Snow and ice is a bad hazard, especially on the highways, when you are going a high rate of speed.”

— Cpl. Angie Hines, Anne Arundel County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the 'Clear Before You Drive Act' to move forward in the Maryland legislature.

The takeaway

These incidents underscore the urgent need for drivers to take responsibility and fully clear their vehicles of snow and ice before hitting the roads, as flying debris can cause serious damage and injuries. With new legislation pending, there may soon be legal consequences for those who fail to do so.