Leaves, snow, grit, and other factors are some of the culprits behind many drivers having dirty car windows. But can you be fined for not keeping the windscreen clean? We answer this question and many others below!
Fines for having dirty car windows
As stated in Article 19 of the Highway Code: “The glazed surface of the vehicle must allow, in all cases, unobstructed visibility for the driver over the entire road on which they are travelling, without interference from films or stickers.”
Furthermore, the placement of non-approved tinted glass is prohibited, as non-approved tints impair optimal visibility. However, you can use sunshades on the rear windows, provided that the vehicle has two exterior rear-view mirrors in compliance with traffic regulations.
But what happens if the front and rear glass are not cleaned properly? Driving with dirty windows that impair visibility is a serious offence under the Traffic and Road Safety Code.
That said, as a glass workshop we know that during frosts or snowfalls, such an offence can be committed involuntarily, as some parts of the car windows may remain partially covered. Therefore, before driving, you must clean the glass properly and change the windscreen wipers if you notice that the blades are not functioning correctly.
In addition to these offences, having the number plate covered or partially obscured so that it cannot be read correctly is another violation, punishable by a fine of up to €200.
Other fines for lack of visibility
Below, as a glass workshop, we tell you about other specific cases that can lead to €200 fines for lack of visibility:
- Driving with windows or other glass damaged or broken in a way that hinders the driver’s visibility while driving.
- Driving with non-authorised stickers or sunshades that once again impair correct visibility. As a tip, it is very important that the ITV (vehicle inspection) sticker is correctly placed — in the upper right-hand area of the windscreen. The DGT environmental badge must be placed in the lower right-hand side.
- The use of non-approved tinted glass.
- Having a mobile phone in a holder attached to the glass or positioned in an area that obscures visibility.
As a glass workshop, we know how important clear visibility on the road is, and we recommend regularly checking your vehicle’s glass, as well as the windscreen wipers, and replacing your wipers as soon as you notice they are no longer functioning properly.
When should you replace your windscreen wipers?
There are some clear indicators that your wiper blades need replacing:
They make noise. If you notice that the windscreen wipers start making a noise they didn’t make before, it is very likely because the rubber has hardened due to wear and weather conditions, or because the wipers are applying too much pressure and are therefore not functioning properly.
Dirt particles. If, when you use them, they leave streaks or moisture marks, it is another clear sign that you should replace the windscreen wipers as soon as you can.
Roughness. To check if your wiper blades have rough edges, run your finger along their edge and, if you feel them, you should book an appointment with your nearest Ralarsa glass workshop to have them replaced.
Once again, in this blog we give you multiple tips to ensure your road safety while driving. On this occasion, we have talked about fines for lack of visibility in car windows and all the signs that point to needing to replace your windscreen wipers. But if you want to keep learning more tips and curiosities about car glass and driving, don’t forget to visit our blog!
