If you drive on Indiana roads, you already know that you are required to follow a variety of traffic rules. In addition to the traffic laws, motorists are also required to make sure that their windshields are in compliance with the regulations in order to avoid fines. Below are the windshield laws in Indiana that drivers are required to follow when driving on the roads and highways throughout the state.
Windshield requirements
All vehicles, excluding motorcycles and mopeds, are required to have a windshield when driven on the roadways in Indiana.
All windshields must be constructed of safety glazing material, which is glass that is either treated or combined with other materials that reduce the potential for shattering or flying glass if it is struck or broken.
All vehicles are required to have windshield wipers that are controlled by the driver, maintained in good working condition and are capable of removing snow, rain and other moisture from the windshield.
Failing to comply with any of these requirements carries a fine of $169 per offense.
Obstructions
Any poster, sign or other nontransparent material that obstructs the driver’s view of the roadway and any intersecting roadway is not permitted.
Stickers and posters that are four inches square or smaller are permitted in the lower corner that is located farthest from the driver.
Failing to keep obstructions off of the windshield can result in a $169 fine for each time the vehicle is stopped and the issue is present.
Window tint
Non-reflective window tint is permitted on the windshield providing it does not extend lower than the AS-1 line provided by the manufacturer.
Any tint used on other windows on the vehicle must permit over 30% of the light to pass through.
Reflective tint is permitted on windows other than the windshield, providing it is not over 25% reflective.
Darker tint may be permitted for circumstances involving medical conditions with a doctor’s certification.
Drivers who operate a vehicle with tint that does not comply with these laws could face a fine ranging from $169 to $184 for each offense.
Cracks and chips
Indiana does not specify any regulations in regards to cracked or chipped windshields. However, drivers will need to comply with the following:
All vehicles must be in a safe condition that does not endanger the driver, other vehicle occupants or others on the roadway.
Vehicles are required to be in good working condition, which involves all parts functioning in a safe manner.
Ticketing officers are permitted to use their own discretion as to whether cracks or chips in the windshield could cause the vehicle to be unsafe or not in good working condition, especially if the damage is in front of the driver.
Failing to comply can result in fines up to $169 per occurrence.
If your windshield needs to be inspected or your wipers are not working properly, a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, can help you get back on the road safely and quickly so you are driving within the laws.
