A lorry driver was fined 200 Swiss francs (nearly €200) in Switzerland after an accident in which ice sheets had fallen from his trailer onto a passenger car travelling behind him. The driver appealed against the fine and ended up having to pay another 4,705 francs (€4,695 euros) in legal costs.

HGV driver appeals fine for ice falling from his trailer, ends up €5,000 out of pocket

Winter has swept across Europe in recent days resulting in many lorry drivers ending up in several-hours-long standstills on motorways caused by snow and accidents. Meanwhile, in the UK, English councils are “redeploying" staff amid a gritter lorry driver shortage.

HGV driver injured in one of many accidents on Europe’s snow-hit roads

Volvo Trucks has launched a new safety feature for its electric trucks. Named ‘Active Grip Control', the innovation is said to improve stability, acceleration and braking on icy roads. To demonstrate how it works, Volvo filmed its FH Electric accelerating fully on an icy road with a loaded trailer.

See how Volvo Truck’s new tech improves grip on icy roads

HGV drivers are obligated to make sure before departure that their vehicle is safe – not just for themselves but also for other road users. This check includes removing snow and ice from the roof of the cabin and trailer when required. With regards to this, a German police department have published a handy list of where professional snow removal equipment can be found at fuel stations and lorry parks across the country.

HGV driver appeals fine for ice falling from his trailer, ends up €5,000 out of pocket

HGV driver injured in one of many accidents on Europe’s snow-hit roads

See how Volvo Truck’s new tech improves grip on icy roads

Here’s a list where to find pro snow removal equipment in Germany

Liam Neeson stars as lorry driver in snow rescue thriller The Ice Road

Ice on a truck roof. The German automobile club warns of the consequences.