Windshield laws in Michigan
Auto repair

Windshield laws in Michigan

09.11.2022 /

If you drive in Michigan, you already know that you have to follow many different traffic rules to keep yourself and those around you safe. In addition to these regulations, motorists are also required to ensure that their windshields also comply with the regulations. Below are the Michigan windshield laws that drivers must follow.

windshield requirements

  • Windshields are required on all vehicles, except those that are heritage vehicles or that were not equipped with windshields when originally manufactured.

  • All vehicles that require windshields must also have windshield wipers that effectively clear snow, rain, and other forms of moisture from the windshield.

  • Vehicles over 10,000 pounds must also have working defrosters or heated windshields that provide clear vision at all times.

  • All vehicles must have windshields and windows made of safety glazing, which is either treated glass or glass combined with other materials, greatly reducing the chance of glass breaking or shattering in the event of an impact or crash.

Obstacles

  • Motorists are not allowed to place posters, signs or any other opaque material on the windshield or front side windows.

  • Any vehicle that does not provide the driver with a clear view through the rear window must have side mirrors on both sides that provide a view to the rear of the vehicle.

  • Only necessary stickers are allowed on the windshield, which must be affixed in the lower corners in such a way as not to obstruct the driver's view of the carriageway and the carriageway crossing it.

Window tinting

  • Only non-reflective tinting along the uppermost four inches is allowed on the windshield.

  • People with photosensitivity or photosensitivity who have a letter signed by an optometrist or physician stating that it is necessary are allowed to undergo special window treatments.

  • Any degree of tint is acceptable on front side windows, provided it is applied four inches from the top of the window.

  • All other windows can have any shade of darkness.

  • Only reflective tinting with less than 35% reflectance is allowed for use on the front side, back side and rear window.

Cracks and chips

In Michigan, there are no regulations regarding cracks, chips, or other damage to a windshield. However, other laws include:

  • Vehicles must be in a safe operating condition that does not endanger the driver or other persons on the roadway.

  • Law enforcement may stop any vehicle that they believe is on the roadway in an unsafe condition, including any chipped or cracked windshield that prevents the driver from seeing clearly.

Violations

Failure to comply with these requirements in Michigan is considered a traffic violation that can result in fines and fines. Michigan does not list the amount of these fines.

If you need to inspect your windshield or your wipers aren't working properly, a certified technician like one of AvtoTachki can help you get back on the road safely and quickly so you're driving within the law.

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