The private number plate company Absolute Reg has highlighted that drivers could face fines and an increased risk of accidents if something fitted to the windscreen of their vehicle blocks their view.
According to the Highway Code, drivers of a vehicle featuring an item more than 4cm in size blocking their view of the road or pavement could face a fine of between £200 and £2,500.
Jake Smith, Director at Absolute Reg, warned that many items commonly fitted to vehicle windscreens could be illegal if they block the driver’s view of the road.
He advised: “Many of us drivers are not aware that anything on our windscreen could be putting us and other road users in danger. But anything that is obstructing the view of the road ahead is deemed illegal and against the Highway Code.
“It’s best to remove things like stickers and air fresheners from the front and rear windscreen, and ensure that dashcams and phone holders aren’t obstructing the line of sight.”
Absolute Reg suggested that one of the most popular items that could restrict a driver’s view is an air freshener, which many motorists hang from the rear view mirror.
Whilst it is technically not illegal for drivers to fit an air freshener in this location, the company warned that drivers could be breaking the law if it is big enough to block a significant part of the road.
However, there are still many places that motorists can fit an accessory to make the interior smell nicer, such as on the rear grab-handles.
Another potentially distracting device that is growing in popularity is the dashcam, which typically needs to be fitted to the windscreen in order to record any accidents on the road.
Absolute Reg recommended that drivers wanting to fit a dashcam to their car should place it at the very top of the windscreen, outside the driver’s line of sight.
The company also reminded drivers to make sure that any wires connecting the dashcam to the car should be fitted securely, either by tucking it into the edge of the headlining or attached to the edge of the screen and A-pillar.
Jake also highlighted that damage to the windscreen such as chips and cracks can also block the drivers view of the road, making it vital to repair as soon as possible.
He added: “Even small chips to the windscreen could impact your view of the traffic ahead. Get any damage seen to immediately to avoid being penalised or causing an accident.”
Drivers can typically get windscreen chips fixed for around £40, with many companies repairing vehicles at the owner’s home.
