Overview
- Drivers must clear all windows, lights, mirrors and the roof, as a small peephole in the windshield is not sufficient and can draw a €10 warning fine, with €25 for an uncleared roof and €5 for obscured plates, and higher penalties or points if danger or a crash results.
- Letting the engine idle to defrost windows is prohibited and can cost €80, and insurers may reduce coverage if negligence is found.
- Interior icing stems mainly from high cabin humidity caused by wet clothing or a clogged pollen filter, so officials advise airing the car before parking, briefly using the air conditioner to dehumidify during drives, and placing moisture absorbers such as newspaper or cat litter.
- Authorities caution against pouring hot water on frozen glass because it can crack and advise not to use de-icer sprays inside the cabin due to health concerns.
- Regional police recorded only three crashes tied to improper de-icing in the Werra‑Meißner district since January 2022, including a case on December 12 in Witzenhausen, with two incidents sanctioned at €120 and one point.