A Union County driver says he’s grateful to be alive after snow and ice flew off the roof of another vehicle and smashed into his windshield while driving on the Garden State Parkway.

Owen Barreira, of Hillside, says the incident happened on Jan. 28 around 4:30 p.m., when snow and ice from a car in front of him struck his passenger-side windshield, sending glass across his vehicle. He reported the incident to police and provided the license plate information, but says without photos or video, there was little the officers could do.

Barreira says he’s now left dealing with the damage through his own insurance, calling it frustrating and unfair.

Auto glass shops across New Jersey say they’ve seen a surge in cracked and shattered windshields following recent winter storms. State law requires drivers to clear snow and ice from their vehicles before hitting the road. Violations can result in fines of up to $1,000 if flying debris causes damage or injuries.