What Is Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire? Snow & Ice Removal Requirements
If you’ve been pulled over for snow on your car roof or seen warnings about “Jessica’s Law” during New Hampshire winters, you’re probably wondering what this law actually requires and what happens if you don’t comply.
Here’s the truth: Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire has nothing to do with sex offenders. It’s a traffic safety law that could cost you up to $1,000 if you don’t clear your vehicle properly.
What Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire Actually Is
Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire is the popular name for RSA 265:79-b, the state’s negligent driving statute that requires all drivers to remove snow and ice from their vehicles before driving.
The law was passed in 2001 and became effective January 1, 2002, following the tragic death of 20-year-old Jessica Smith in Peterborough in 1999.
What happened: A nine-foot piece of ice flew off a tractor-trailer, struck a box truck, and caused that truck to veer into Jessica’s lane, killing her instantly on Route 202.
Her parents, Linda and Donald Smith, worked with State Representative Robert Leroux and Victims, Inc. to draft legislation preventing similar tragedies. As Linda Smith put it: “It takes not even five minutes to clean off your car. It can take three seconds to kill somebody.”
Bottom line: Jessica’s Law makes it illegal to drive with snow or ice on your vehicle that could become a hazard to other drivers.
Who Must Follow Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire
Every driver in New Hampshire must comply—no exceptions.
This includes:
- Passenger vehicle drivers
- SUV and truck owners
- Commercial motor vehicle operators
- Tractor-trailer drivers
- Box truck drivers
- Delivery vehicles
The law applies statewide on all New Hampshire roads, highways, and interstates.
Commercial drivers face particularly strict enforcement. According to New Hampshire State Police records from December 2022, seven commercial vehicles were placed out-of-service during a single patrol for Jessica’s Law violations.
What You Must Remove From Your Vehicle
You must remove all snow and ice from:
- Vehicle roof
- Hood
- Trunk
- Windows and windshield
- Headlights and taillights
- Side mirrors
“All” means complete removal, not just scraping a small viewing area on your windshield.
💡 Pro Tip
Use a snow broom instead of an ice scraper. Snow brooms have longer handles that easily reach SUV and truck roofs, regardless of your height. They’re faster and more effective than scrapers for clearing large areas.
Penalties for Violating Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire
First offense: $250 to $500 fine
Subsequent offenses: $500 to $1,000 fine
These violations are prosecuted under RSA 265:79-b as negligent driving charges.
If snow or ice from your vehicle causes an accident, you could face:
- Enhanced criminal charges
- Civil liability for injuries and property damage
- Potential assault charges if someone is seriously injured
- Insurance claim denials or reductions
As of January 2026, New Hampshire State Police continue aggressive enforcement during winter months, with directed patrols specifically targeting Jessica’s Law compliance on high-traffic commercial routes.
Unlike some lane splitting laws where enforcement varies, Jessica’s Law violations result in immediate citations.
How Jessica’s Law Compares to Other States
New Hampshire was among the first states to pass comprehensive snow removal legislation. As of 2026, only a handful of states have similar laws:
- Connecticut: Similar requirements
- New Jersey: Snow and ice removal mandated
- Delaware: Comparable legislation
- Pennsylvania: Vehicle clearance laws
Most states lack specific snow removal statutes, relying instead on genera lnegligence laws to prosecute drivers whose unsecured snow causes accidents.
Linda Smith, Jessica’s mother, has advocated for harsher penalties given the deadly consequences. She continues to see snow-covered vehicles daily, 24 years after her daughter’s death.
What to Do If You’re Cited for a Jessica’s Law Violation
If you receive a citation:
- Don’t argue at the scene – Accept the citation and address it in court
- Document conditions – Take photos of your vehicle if you believe the citation was unwarranted
- Consult legal counsel – Traffic violations can affect insurance rates and driving records
- Appear in court – Failure to appear results in automatic conviction and additional penalties
If ice from another vehicle hits you:
- Call 911 immediately – Report the incident to law enforcement
- Get vehicle information – License plate, vehicle description, direction of travel
- Document everything – Photos of damage, ice debris, witness contact information
- Seek medical attention – Even minor impacts can cause delayed injuries
- Contact your insurance – File a claim promptly
For serious injuries caused by another driver’s failure to comply with Jessica’s Law, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim based on negligence.
Common Questions About Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire
Does Jessica’s Law apply to parking lots?
The statute applies to all roadways. While enforcement in private parking lots is rare, the law technically requires snow removal before operating the vehicle anywhere.
What if I’m just driving a short distance?
Distance doesn’t matter. The law applies to all vehicle operation on New Hampshire roads.
Can I be charged if ice falls off while I’m driving?
Yes. The violation occurs when you drive with snow or ice that hasn’t been removed, regardless of when it falls off.
Are there exemptions during active snowstorms?
No formal exemption exists, but law enforcement uses discretion during active precipitation when immediate accumulation occurs.
What about ice that forms while driving?
You’re expected to clear ice that accumulated before you began driving. Ice forming during your trip typically doesn’t result in citations, though you should stop and clear it when safe.
Important Disclaimer About Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire
This article provides general information about Jessica’s Law in New Hampshire and RSA 265:79-b negligent driving requirements as of January 2026. Jessica’s Law penalties, enforcement practices, and legal interpretations may vary by jurisdiction and change over time.
AllAboutLawyer.com does not provide legal advice or personal legal services. If you’ve been cited for a Jessica’s Law violation, caused an accident involving snow or ice, or been injured by debris from another vehicle, consult with a qualified New Hampshire traffic attorney who can evaluate your specific situation.
For official information, contact the New Hampshire Department of Safety at (603) 223-3889 or visit New Hampshire State Police.
Need help understanding your rights after a traffic violation? Explore our comprehensive guides on traffic laws by state to stay informed about your legal obligations.
Stay informed, stay protected. — AllAboutLawyer.com
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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