If you drive with a cracked or dusty windshield, you should know that you’re exposing yourself to a series of potential road hazards. In addition, traffic officers can fine you, as you’d be violating one of the basic traffic rules: ensuring the driver has a clear view at all times while driving.
In this article, we’ll explain the penalties you may face if you drive under these conditions, and how you can restore your glass to the transparency it needs with the help of Ralarsa, your automotive glass specialist.
Car glass: penalties for poor condition
It’s extremely important to properly maintain your car’s glass to prevent possible accidents and protect vehicle occupants. Below are some of the issues that can compromise visibility and give police grounds to immobilise your vehicle:
Cracked glass. Driving with a cracked windshield poses a serious danger to you and your passengers. A small chip can grow and put your safety at risk. At Ralarsa, we recommend prompt glass repairs.
Dirty glass. Over time, windshields naturally collect dust, insects, and other debris that can obstruct the driver’s view. Clean your car windows regularly, inside and out, using products that won’t damage the surface.
Tinted glass. It is forbidden to have tinted front windows, except in some cases (e.g., official vehicles or people with high light sensitivity). In other cases, tinting is only allowed on the rear side windows, and only if there are two exterior side mirrors.
Objects obstructing visibility. You cannot drive with any items that obstruct the driver’s view, such as placing a mobile phone holder in an inappropriate area of the windshield.
These situations do not result in points being deducted from your licence, but they can carry fines of up to €200 in most cases. Likewise, if it’s raining heavily and your wipers are in poor condition, officers can pull you over and impose a fine.
Ralarsa solutions to ensure visibility at the wheel
If you recognise any of the situations above, or just want to strengthen your vehicle’s visibility, here are the services we offer to guarantee a clear windshield.
Glass repair: the right solution
You can bring your car to any of our workshops or, if you prefer, we can come to your location. The windshield is one of the key safety components in your vehicle.
If yours has a chip of about 40 mm in diameter, we can repair it. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have your glass looking like new, ready for safe driving. If the damage has spread, we can also replace your car glass to solve the issue completely.
Safe window tinting
If you wish to tint your windows and ensure it’s done legally, choose our service. At Ralarsa, automotive glass specialists, we offer up to 20 shades to suit each car model.
All our films are fully certified so you won’t have any problems when passing the MOT. As with repairs, we can also provide mobile service for your convenience.
Wiper blade replacement
To maintain good glass condition, check your wipers regularly. Worn blades can scratch the glass more easily and won’t completely remove dirt or water, reducing visibility by up to 25%.
Therefore, it’s necessary to keep your wipers in good condition and replace them at least once a year, although frequency will depend on weather conditions where you drive.
Drive safely with Ralarsa, automotive glass specialists
Now that you know some of the penalties — such as fines for dirty glass — we invite you to check yours and contact us if you need glass repair or any other service. Visit our website to discover what we can do for your car, regardless of model.
Let our automotive experts guide you. We’ve spent more than 40 years in the automotive industry, working side by side to make you feel a part of Ralarsa. We look forward to seeing you!
