Many drivers are interested in window tinting in the sunny state of Florida. Some enjoy the aesthetic look it gives to their vehicles, while others want to shield themselves from the bright Florida sun.
Most drivers believe they should be allowed to customize their vehicle in any way that they choose. However, Florida has laws that limit the amount of window tint that can legally be placed on a vehicle. When drivers violate these Florida laws, they can possibly face a misdemeanor conviction. With this conviction can come severe penalties and fees. Before adding any customization, such as window tint, to your vehicle, it is crucial that you know the laws surrounding tinting so that you can abide by them. If you are facing these penalties, contact our truck accident lawyers today.
What Is the Purpose of Window Tint Laws in Florida?
While it may seem as though Florida lawmakers are just trying to control your right to do as you please to your vehicle, there are safety considerations behind these laws. Reflective or dark tinting can cause a distraction to your fellow drivers, which can increase the risk of a car crash.
Another purpose of Florida window tint laws is for the safety of law-enforcement officers performing traffic stops. When officers are performing routine traffic stops, they must be able to view inside the vehicle, otherwise, they will be on high alert for potential dangers, creating a dangerous situation for the officer and driver alike.
Are All Window Tints the Same?
In general, window tints are the same, but two different measurements are considered when deciding which window tint you can lawfully use in Florida.
The first measurement accounts for the amount of VLT or visual light transmitted into the window and the tint. This is measured as a percentage, and the less light able to be transmitted, and the darker the tint, the lower the percentage.
The second type of measurement is for the reflectiveness of the window tint. This measures the amount of light reflected by the window tint. This is also expressed by a percentage, which is known as VLR or visible light reflected. The percentage becomes higher the more the light reflects off the tint.
Passenger Vehicle and Sedan Window Tint Laws
In addition to Florida’s VLT and VLR window tint laws, consideration must be made for the type of vehicle on which the tint is placed.
The VLT and VLR tint limits for passenger cars are as follows:
- The top front windshield, above the AS-1 line, may only have zero percent non-reflective tint
- The front side windows must have 28 percent or greater VLT and 25 percent or less VLR
- The rear side windows must have 15 percent or greater VLT and 35 percent or less VLR
- The rear window must have 15 percent or greater VLT
The VLT and VLR tint limits for vans, SUVs, and other similar vehicles differ slightly and are as follows:
- Non-reflective tint can be applied above the AS-1 line on the front windshield
- The front side windows must reflect 25 percent or less light and transmit 28 percent or more light.
- The rear side windows must have 35 percent or less VLR and 6 percent or greater VLT
- The rear window must allow 6 percent or higher light transmission
These are Florida’s minimum standards for window tint. If a police officer thinks that the window tint has violated any of these restrictions, they have the right to pull you over.
Window Tint Violation Penalties
When deciding to put window tint on your vehicle, you must consider the legal limitations to avoid facing a conviction for the violation of these limitations.
In Florida, a window tint violation is a second-degree misdemeanor with a fine of no more than $500. In addition to this hefty fine, you could also face a 60-day jail sentence and a probation period of six months.
If you are facing legal repercussions for not following Florida window tint law, a South Florida truck accident lawyer can help.
Contact a Truck Injury Lawyer at Englander Peebles
If you are facing legal troubles due to the window tint you have applied to your vehicle, one of our experienced attorneys at the law firm of Englander Peebles can help. Call us today to discuss the details of your case and receive a free case evaluation from one of our experienced lawyers. Let us help protect you and your legal rights.