Quote:
Originally Posted by Mr. V
I understand it is not illegal to drive a pickup on the ice in NH, but I have to ask: how common is it to see vehicles operating on the ice?
Common, uncommon, almost unheard of?
If common then perhaps those who plan to do so in the future could and should ask their insurance agent to look into getting them a special policy which would cover removal expenses, if such a thing is in fact available.
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In some places driving out on the ice is common place, Having lived in Northern Vermont, I would see them out on Lake Champlain all the time.... As long as the ice is thick enough it isn't a problem (although I would never do it).... When I was living up there I never heard of anyone having insurance that would cover going through the ice..in fact most insurance policies state that coverage is only valid on public roadways.. Most people had older cars they used, and there where a few firms that would do recovery.
Cars going through the ice is nothing new, and that is why there are laws concerning recovery. With that said, think about this folks, if a car goes through and looses all its fuel, tranny fluid, and coolant.... once it dissipates how much does it really effect. If 100 cars go through than it becomes a different story....
With all that said, yes eventually the state should step in and remove it. But is it urgent like it needs to be done tomorrow? I don't think so unless it is a hazard to navigation. Should the owner be allowed to try and remove it himself, that is the big question in my mind... I don't think so because of the risk of pollution, but on the flip side of that even a salvage company runs the risk of damage causing pollution.
I am more concerned about the contamination that comes out of peoples bilge pumps all season long... While some boat owners do a great job making sure their bilges are free from oil and other contaminants most are not... but no one ever seems to start threads about that....
At the end of the day, in this thread it seems that people think this one car is the end of the world for the lake.... It isn't.... Do I think this case need publicity yes I do especially if the state steps in and removes the vehicle and bills the owner... People need to know these accidents have consequences...