Rhode Island Driver Cruises with Mountain of Snow on SUV After Blizzard

Viral video shows driver relying on tiny cleared window for visibility after historic winter storm.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A reckless Rhode Island driver outraged their community by driving their SUV completely blanketed in snow the day after a historic winter storm dumped over 30 inches of snow across the state. Viral footage shows the snow-caked vehicle with a mountain of snow piled on its roof cruising down an ice-and-slush-covered street, with the driver relying on a tiny cleared window for visibility.

Why it matters

The driver's actions were seen as extremely dangerous and in violation of Rhode Island law, which requires motorists to fully clear snow and ice from their vehicles before driving. The incident highlights the risks of driving in hazardous winter conditions and the importance of proper snow removal for public safety.

The details

The incident occurred on Tuesday, the day after Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee had lifted a travel ban on commercial vehicles following Winter Storm Hernando, which dumped 30 inches of snow in certain areas. While the governor urged residents to use 'extreme caution on local roads if travel is necessary,' the driver of the snow-caked SUV appeared to be disregarding safety concerns.

  • On Sunday, Winter Storm Hernando dumped 30 inches of snow in certain areas of Rhode Island.
  • On Monday, Rhode Island State Police responded to 269 disabled vehicles, 25 crashes, and issued 40 citations for travel ban violations.
  • On Tuesday, the travel ban was lifted, but the governor urged residents to use 'extreme caution on local roads if travel is necessary.'

The players

Dan McKee

The governor of Rhode Island who implemented a travel ban during the historic winter storm and later lifted it, urging caution on local roads.

Erik Yanyar

A major with the Rhode Island State Police who reported the high number of disabled vehicles, crashes, and citations issued during the travel ban on Monday.

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What’s next

Rhode Island authorities are expected to investigate the incident and determine if the driver will face any citations or charges for their reckless behavior.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of properly clearing snow and ice from vehicles before driving, not only for the safety of the driver but also for the safety of other motorists and pedestrians on the roads. It serves as a reminder that driving in hazardous winter conditions requires extra caution and responsibility.