Why is it you see so many cars now sporting illegal dark window tints on front/ side windows, and some are even tinting the front windshields? I often see it so dark that you cannot see the driver at all.
It is dangerous to not be able to make eye contact with drivers at 4-way stops, parking lots, and in crosswalks. It also must make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and bicyclists at night.
Does the recent increase mean the law is not being enforced as vigorously as it used to be? It seems it also would be a concern for police during traffic stops but the drivers of these cars probably roll down their windows when pulled over. I know it’s a “fix it” ticket, but it should be a standard write-up on any traffic stop.
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
To help answer your question, I ask our Traffic Bureau Sergeant Jordan Mirakian for some help. Please see below:
Jeff, thank you for raising this important issue. We appreciate your concern and share your observations about the increase in vehicles sporting illegal dark window tints, including on front side windows and even windshields. This trend does pose significant safety concerns for both drivers and pedestrians.
In California, Vehicle Code §26708 prohibits window tinting that obstructs or reduces a driver’s clear view through the windshield or front side windows. The law requires the front side windows to allow more than 70% of light to pass through, limiting dark tinting on these windows.
The primary reason behind the perceived increase in illegal window tints can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the popularity of aftermarket modifications, the misconception that darker tints offer better privacy and UV protection, and the perception that enforcement may not be as stringent as it once was.
However, I want to assure you that our officers are actively enforcing all vehicle code violations, including window tint regulations. We recognize the dangers posed by excessively dark tints, particularly the inability to make eye contact with drivers at intersections, in parking lots, or at crosswalks. This lack of visibility can lead to misunderstandings or accidents, especially in low-light conditions where pedestrians and cyclists might be harder to see.
While it might seem that the law is not being enforced as vigorously, the reality is that our officers are making every effort to address these and other violations. Enforcement decisions often involve a balance of discretion and prioritization. For instance, during a recent countywide operation in collaboration with allied agencies, our team stopped over 250 vehicles, resulting in 89 traffic citations. Operations funded by the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) are a key part of our strategy to ensure compliance, but continuous and consistent enforcement is crucial for long-term effectiveness.
In addition to issuing “fix-it” tickets, where drivers are required to correct the violation and provide proof of correction, we also consider window tint violations as part of our standard protocol during any traffic stop. As you mentioned, drivers with illegal tints often roll down their windows during stops, which can temporarily mitigate the issue, but the underlying violation remains a concern for law enforcement and public safety.
We remain committed to upholding traffic safety standards and will continue our efforts to address equipment violations like illegal window tints. Your feedback is valuable, and we encourage the community to stay vigilant and report any concerns to help us maintain a safe environment for everyone on the road.
Keep your questions coming Seal Beach. Email us at askacop@sealbeachca.gov today.
