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Window Tinting has become extremely popular over the past decade for a variety of reasons. Some drivers prefer the cooler temperatures that tinting keeps their car. Others need window tinting for a medical reason. In the end, some people just think window tinting makes their car look “cool”. Anyway you slice it, it’s important as a driver to know that there are state specific laws regarding window tinting in nearly every state in the U.S.
First, let’s cover the basics.
“Window Tinting” in terms of automobiles is the process of filtering the amount of light than can enter through a car or truck’s window by applying some sort of film or coating on the window itself.
Often times newer cars will already have a certain degree of window tinting applied which occurs in the manufacturing plant. Drivers can almost always assume that this type of tinting is in compliance with federal and state window tinting laws and regulations.
Many drivers, however, will perform after-market window tinting that is done at home or by a private window tinting company. This is where drivers run the biggest risk of violating federal and state laws.
State Regulation
While window tinting filters out light, it also reduces the visibility of the driver. Window tinting is almost always regulated under state laws making them different for each state. Most states, however, are similar in that they typically consider window tinting to include:
* Tinted film that has been heated and shrunk on the inside surface of the glass.
* Sunscreen devices typically made out of plastic and attached to a vehicle’s windshield, side windows or rear window.
State regulation measures the degree of window tinting on a window as a percentage of light being transmitted. For example, some tints may offer 90% light transmittance meaning they let 90% of the light through into the car but filter the other 10%.
If you have window tinting or are considering getting your auto’s windows tinted, it’s a good idea to check the window tint laws in your state so you don’t have to worry about violating any laws.
Tickets for window tinting violations can vary from state to state ranging anywhere from $100-$500. Remember, traffic tickets are not only costly, but may also drive up your auto insurance rates.
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