Although window tinting in Indiana is not illegal, the law has specific rules and regulations that vehicle owners and manufacturers must follow. Violation can lead to fines and also increase the risk of accidents, causing injuries to vehicle occupants and other road users. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys have deep knowledge of state tint laws and can guide injured victims on their legal options.
The Benefits of Non-reflective Tint and Tinted Windows
Tinted car windows have many benefits, some of which include the following:
Tint reflection is great for reducing glare, which can be potentially harmful as it blocks the driver's view and increases the risk of an accident.
Car window tints provide a lot of privacy to the driver and the vehicle occupants.
Tinted windows increase security as they make break-ins more difficult due to the broken windows held together by the film.
It provides protection from harmful UV rays by blocking them.
A window tint can not only protect a person's skin but also prevent damage to the vehicle's interior from overexposure to sunlight.
Since a window tint protects the vehicle's interior, it preserves its resale value.
What Is the Legal Limit for Window Tint in Indiana?
The percent of visible light allowed through the windows of a car is often referred to as visible light transmission (VLT). Under Indiana's car window tinting laws, the VLT is different for sedans, SUVs, and vans.
Below is the maximum tint darkness allowed in the state for sedans according to the different types of windows:
Windshield: Car owners should have non-reflective tints on their windshields above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
Front side windows: Under the car tinting laws in Indiana, the front side windows should allow at least 30% of the light in.
Back side windows: Car owners can tint the back side windows, but it should be able to let more than 30% of the light pass through.
Rear window: Under the law, the rear window should allow at least 30% of the light in.
The tint darkness requirements, as per the law for SUVs and vans, are different from the guidelines set for sedans. It is as follows:
Windshield: SUV and van owners should have a non-reflective tint on their windshields above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
Front side windows: Under the state's window tint laws, the front side windows should allow at least 30% of the light in.
Back side windows: SUV and van owners can tint the back side windows according to their needs, but it is crucial that the tint starts several inches from the top of the window.
Rear window: Under the Indiana tint laws, the maximum window tint darkness for the rear windows of the SUVs and vans is the same as the back side windows.
To put the state guidelines into perspective, limousines with very dark windows have a 5% VLT. The higher the visible light transmission percentage, the clearer it is.
It's also important to note that even though the Indiana window tint laws require that the back side and rear windows for SUVs and vans must cease several inches below the top of the window, it does not provide exact measurements. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys can advise on what you can do to avoid jackknife accidents in Indiana.
Does the Indiana Window Tint Law Cover Window Reflection?
The Indiana window tint laws require vehicle owners to have a certain level of window reflection when using a tint.
Sedan owners should have a window reflection of no more than 25% on their vehicle's front side and back side windows. The same is the case for individuals who own SUVs and vans.
Are There Any Other Window Tint Laws or Exemptions in Indiana?
When compared to many other states, Indiana tint laws are pretty flexible. Car owners do not require stickers that identify legal tinting, and there are no prohibitions on colored window tints.
Unlike other states that have rules on the placement and condition of tinted side view mirrors, there is no such requirement on side window tinting in Indiana. However, the laws require manufacturers to certify the film they sell in the state.
There are also exemptions provided under the Indiana window tint rules and regulations. Those who face medical issues (glaucoma, skin sensitivity to UV light, and other problems) that require a dark tint may request a dispensation from their doctors and keep the document in the vehicle at all times.
What Are the Penalties for Violating Indiana Window Tint Laws?
The Indiana window tinting laws classify a violation as either a class C or class A infraction, depending on the number of citations issued by law enforcement officers in the state.
Under the law, anyone violating the Indiana window tinting laws can face a class C infraction; the penalty is a maximum fine of $500. The law enforcement authorities have discretion in determining the amount of the fine.
On the other hand, multiple offenders may face a class A infraction, which can have a massive penalty. Law enforcement officers can fine the car owner who violates the state's window tint laws a maximum of $10,000.
Many motor vehicle owners believe that they can get away with their tinted windows without police officers knowing about it. They fail to realize that law enforcement officers have a device that helps them instantly measure the window's VLT during a traffic stop or vehicle inspection.
If a driver receives a citation for not having the correct tint reflection or VLT, they must immediately replace it with a legal and certified film to avoid trouble with the police in the future.
Do Tinted Windows Cause Accidents?
Tinted windows can reduce visibility, and if the vehicle owner has extremely dark film installed on their windows, it can increase the risks of accidents.
Many law enforcement officials have stated that tinted windows are similar to wearing sunglasses while driving at night, which is why it is crucial to adhere to the state's window tint laws. A vehicle accident lawyer will have all the details about this.
Can Injured Victims Recover Damages from the Vehicle Owners with Tinted Windows?
Under personal injury law, any person causing harm or injuries to another due to their negligence can lead to liability, for which the injured victims may be able to pursue compensatory damages.
Suppose the vehicle owner is violating Indiana's window tint laws, which cause an accident that results in injuries. In that case, the injured victim may be able to bring a civil action to obtain compensation for the damages caused. Contact Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys for other questions like, "Is it illegal to drive with interior lights on in Indiana?"
Injured Victims Should Schedule a Free Consultation with Experienced Car Accident Attorneys in Indiana
Those who have suffered injuries in a car accident in Indiana, due to someone else's negligence should call to schedule a free consultation with Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, as they may be eligible for compensation.
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