In Illinois, the tint on vehicle windows is subject to government regulation. These regulations are necessary for driver safety. We look at why vehicles need tinted window regulations in Illinois.
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What are Vehicle Tinted Windows?
A window film or tint, is a thin laminate film usually made from thermoplastic polymer resin installed on vehicle interior or exterior glass surfaces. The primary use of window tints is to block ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and reduce glare.
Other uses are for privacy and style.
Illinois Tint Laws
Tint window darkness is specific but varies for sedan vehicles versus SUVs.
In Illinois, the state uses a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage to measure tinted window compliance. A Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) measures how much visible light comes through a vehicle window. For vehicles, Illinois tinting laws require that a vehicle’s front, back, and rear windows must let in more than 35% of light.
According to the (625 ILCS 5/) Illinois Vehicle Code, the non-reflective tinted film may be used along the uppermost portion of a windshield if the tinted material does not extend more than 6 inches down from the windshield top.
SUVs and Vans
SUVs or vans must allow more than 50% of light. However, SUVs and van windows may have any darkness in the back and rear windows. On regular vehicles, SUVs, and vans, Illinois forbids tinting film with mirrored or metallic appearances on front and back side windows.
These tinting surfaces pose visibility and safety hazards to other vehicles because of reflected glare.
Penalties for Tinted Windows
In Illinois, a first-ticket violation is a petty offense of a fine of no less than $50 to $500. Further offenses are considered misdemeanors with fines that can cost between $100 to $500. In cities like Chicago, a $250 fine can be additionally imposed.
Dangers Of Vehicle Tinted Windows
While tinted windows have uses for blocking UV rays, reducing glare, and ensuring privacy, these windows carry risks. Some risks associated with tinted windows are:
Reduced Visibility
The primary danger of tinted windows for drivers especially for front windows is reduced visibility. With tinted windows, drivers cannot see road signs, other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. This low visibility is increased in low-light conditions, at night, and in bad weather.
There are increased risks for accidents and personal injuries with compromised tinted window visibility.
Reduced Vision
Not only can tinted windows impair visibility, but also reduce peripheral vision and reaction time. At intersections, drivers need to see oncoming traffic from the side. Tinted windows can make it difficult for drivers to see side traffic.
Law Enforcement Hindrance
At traffic stops, tinted windows may make it difficult for law enforcement officers to see inside vehicles. They may be unable to see and assess threats or drivers who require aid inside the vehicles.
Medical Repercussions
Drivers with medical conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration may find it more difficult to drive with tinted windows. The poor visibility with tinted windows adds to their already compromised vision.
Medical Exceptions for Window Tinting
Medical exceptions are available for window tinting laws. These exceptions cover conditions such as lupus, xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), which is a rare condition where UV exposure leads to severely burned skin with an increased risk of skin cancer, and solar urticaria which causes hives and rashes when skin is exposed to sunlight.
Other conditions include albinism for people with reduced melanin, individuals with cataracts and post-cataract surgery, and people with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic disorder that causes vision loss in bright light conditions.
Melanoma and skin cancer patients and those with migraine conditions and severe headaches may qualify for tinted windows exceptions. People seeking medical exceptions should have documentation from a qualified medical professional.
You may not know who to turn to when you have questions about injuries from car accidents.
At Thomas Law Office we are here to inform and help. Contact us today.
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