AAA warns drivers to clear off ice from car roofs and hood

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — If you’ve been out on the interstates in all this snow and ice, you’ve probably seen it: big chunks of ice flying up from people’s cars.

AAA says scraping the ice from just your windows isn’t enough to keep other people safe. If you don’t also clear off ice from your hood and car roof, you could create a dangerous missile of ice that flies into the air after it melts.

It’s especially a problem on interstates, happening at fast speeds, and usually just after someone pulls out of their neighborhood.

"That can be very dangerous, not only can it cause that driver react to that and try to miss it on slick roads, which is not good, in some cases it can cause damage to others vehicles," said Megan Cooper with AAA.

AAA is also warning drivers of a common misconception, that it’s worth it to let your car engine idle to help it warm up.

That used to be the case with older cars, but not today.

AAA says not only does the extra idle time not help your car, but it also contributes to pollution and makes your car a target for theft.