Demystifying RTO Fines for Tinted Car Glass

Tinted car windows have become a popular choice among vehicle owners for various reasons, such as privacy and protection from strong sunrays. However, not all tints comply with the rules and regulations set forth by the Road Transport Office (RTO). It's crucial for car owners to be aware of these regulations, the consequences, and the additional impact on other aspects, such as your car insurance policy.

The Purpose of Tinted Car Glass

Before delving into the regulations and fines, it's essential to understand why tinted car windows are popular. Tinted windows offer several benefits, including:

Reduced Glare

Tinted windows help reduce the sun's glare, making it easier for drivers to see the road clearly, especially during sunny days.

Increased Privacy

Tinted windows provide a level of privacy for the occupants of the vehicle, shielding them from prying eyes.

Aesthetic Appeal

Many car owners choose tinted windows for the aesthetic enhancement they offer, giving their vehicle a sleek and sophisticated look.

Temperature Factor

Tinted windows reduce the amount of sunlight that can enter the interior of the car, thus maintaining a cool internal temperature.

Regulations on Tinted Car Glass

While tinted car windows offer various advantages, they must adhere to specific regulations set by the RTO to ensure road safety and security. Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is one such regulation. VLT refers to the amount of visible light that must pass through the car's tinted windows. As per RTO regulations, the front and rear windshields are required to have a VLT of 70%, whereas the side windows are required to have a VLT of 50%. This ensures drivers have a clear view of the road and pedestrians. Why is there regulation on tinted window? The reason lies in a 2012 judgement passed by the Supreme Court of India. The VLT ratio given above was mentioned in this judgement. Before the judgment, tinted windows were majorly being used by criminal elements. To curb this menace, the honourable Supreme Court had passed this judgment. In it, not only did it specify the ratio, but it also disallowed the usage of any tints on the windows of the cars.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

The RTO has the power to take action against car owners who do not comply with the regulation laid down by them. For instance, if your car has tinted windows and you are caught by the authorities, they might fine and caution you for the first offence. If you are caught a second time, the fine may increase with additional action being taken by them. If the tinted film is still on your car’s window, and you are again caught by the authorities, you may face serious punishment, such as the suspension of your driver’s licence.

Ways To Avoid Non-Compliance

To avoid RTO fines for tinted car glass, vehicle owners should:

Know the Regulations

Familiarize yourself with the specific regulations regarding tinted car windows, the main regulation being the visible light transmission (VLT) ratio. If your car has a tinted film on the window, it is important that the film be removed to comply with the RTO regulation.

Company fitted tinted windows

The RTO, while abiding by the Supreme Court judgment, has allowed car manufacturers to produce tinted glass which can be used in the car. The glass produced has to be approved by the government and has to match the VLT ratio as well.

Relation Between Tinted Windows And Insurance

While your comprehensive vehicle insurance does cover the windows of your car and the damage caused it, if the windows are found to have tinted film on it, the coverage might become void. As tinted windows have been disallowed, having one on your windows might affect your claim. The punishment also carries a possibility of licence suspension, which might severely impact your chances of filing a proper claim. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under motor insurance policy.*

Conclusion

Tinted car glass can provide a range of benefits to vehicle owners, but these advantages should not come at the expense of road safety and compliance with RTO regulations. To avoid fines, legal consequences, and risks associated with non-compliant tints, it's crucial for car owners to be aware of and adhere to the specific tint regulations. By doing so, vehicle owners can enjoy the advantages of tinted windows while ensuring the safety and well-being of all road users. Along with complying with this RTO regulation, you should also comply with the rule of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1989 which mentions that a third-party insurance, such as third-party bike insurance, is mandatory for vehicles on Indian roads.   *Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.