Staying on the right side of the law when it comes to your car windows

What’s the big deal about automotive window tinting? To hear some law enforcement officers talk about it, you’d think it was a capital offense to protect your vehicle from the sun’s harmful rays.

Regardless, it’s undeniable that cops are cracking down on illegal window tint. If you’re mulling window tint or already have a vehicle with tinted windows, it’s critical to know whether you’re a candidate for scrutiny as well.

A Rash of Window Tint Violations

According to anecdotal evidence collected from drivers around Austin, tint-related traffic stops are increasingly common in our part of the state.

There are probably many reasons for this, but it’s worth noting that law enforcement categorizes tint-related pullovers as “high probability” stops: In other words, such stops are more likely to result in arrests for other offenses. For instance, a recent news report highlighted a tint-related stop that produced three separate arrests for DUI and drug charges.

What Does the Law Actually Say?

Even if you don’t have anything to hide, it’s never a good idea to attract the scrutiny of law enforcement. Sound knowledge of the law is the best possible defense against unwanted traffic stops.

Texas’s window tint laws are relatively straightforward. The highlights include:

• Side window tint must allow at least 25% of light in
• Rear window tint can allow any amount of light in
• Windshield tint can begin above the 5-inch mark*
• Front and back side window tint can’t be more than 25% reflective

**An entire windshield can be covered with a clear film option, which blocks 99.9% of UV rays and around 30% of the heat.

Why You Should Hire a Professional

Professional window tint installers know the rules and regulations that govern their activities in the jurisdictions in which they operate. Working with one can dramatically reduce your chances of an unpleasant run-in with law enforcement. Other reasons to hire a professional automotive window tinting expert include:

• Expert knowledge that ensure the job gets done right the first time
• No need to rely on substandard DIY kits
• Workmanship guarantees provide critical peace of mind

Work with Austin’s Automotive Window Tinting Experts

Do yourself a favor and invest in Sunbusters’ professional window tinting services that keep out harmful rays and leave your car looking better than ever before. To learn more about what we can do for you, contact us today!