Is it legal to get your car windows tinted 31^st October 2022

The demand for passenger cars has continued to grow each year due to economic growth, the production of affordable vehicles, and driving convenience for the public.

However, with the rise in vehicle ownership, an inevitable increase in traffic and stricter rule enforcement have followed. It is essential to follow the rules to protect the passengers and the vehicle. For instance, purchasing a car insurance cover is one of the first things that you must do after buying a car to protect the vehicle from damages and reduce the financial burden on the owner. The car insurance price in India is reasonably set depending on usage, model, and engine cc and covers any contingent damages.

It is also essential to follow the rules laid down by the RTO. Often, car owners get their windows tinted, a practice restricted by the authorities. This blog discusses the issue and the consequences of not following the regulation.

What are window tints, and why are they needed?

If you are unaware of the term, it may be because your car does not come with pre-existing tinted windows. Placing a thin laminated film on the inside or outside of windows is common in automobiles and glass buildings, which results in tinted windows.

The thin barrier prevents harsh sun rays from entering the room or the vehicle, thereby minimising the heating. Since sunlight is known to penetrate glass easily, it not only heats the interior but may also cause damage to the seats or furnishings. Apart from sun protection, it provides the added benefit of privacy by minimising visibility from outside.

To sum up, tinted windows are a beneficial addition to cars since they protect the car's interiors from heating up, reduce the risk of damage due to direct exposure to sunlight and also provide passengers privacy.

Why does the RTO restrict the use of tinted films?

The RTO only allows a percentage of tinting that is permitted on laminated films for use on car windows. By following the limits, car owners can safely and legally protect their cars from the heat.

The significant risk of using tinted films is the reduced visibility to drivers. Driving requires the complete focus of the driver and the proper functioning of all his senses to ensure safety on the roads. Depending on the tint percentage, these films can severely hinder the driver's visibility and lead to accidents.

Are window tints illegal?

According to the judgement passed in 2012, the RTO has approved sun control films on windows that provide a minimum of 70% visual light transmission on the front and rear glasses. The side glasses must have minimum visibility of 50%. Some automobile manufacturers also provide the option of installing RTO-approved car glass films.

Penalty on tinted car windows:

If you install tinted films that are not following the RTO's guidelines, you may be fined INR 100 for your first violation. If found for the second time, the fine increases to INR 300. The subsequent breach is fined INR 300, along with the cancellation of the driver's licence. While tinted windows are not illegal, it is necessary to abide by the rules established by the authority to prevent one from getting into legal trouble.

Car insurance is a crucial investment tool that offers comprehensive coverage to the owner if the car gets damaged in an accident. Purchase one for your car by browsing through different plans online and looking for the best car insurance price in India.

But, not following the RTO-issued guidelines on tinted windows or road safety may cause you to encounter the rejection of your car insurance claim. Stay alert and avoid yourself from landing into any trouble.

Click HERE to check out for the best car insurance price in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.