Can You Sue A Driver For Having Tinted Windows In Orlando?
Although many auto enthusiasts roll their eyes at window tinting regulations in Florida, these rules exist for a reason. Tinted windows can cause considerable safety concerns for everyone on the road, and in some cases, they can lead directly to accidents and injuries. But what can you do if you have been injured by a motorist with illegally tinted windows in Orlando? Can you sue them? How can you hold them accountable and receive compensation for your medical expenses, missed wages, and other damages?
The first step is always to get in touch with a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney in Orlando. These legal professionals can help you review your legal options during an initial consultation. During this first visit, your attorney will assess the specific factors that surround your accident, including any signs of negligence. They can then recommend the best course of action and represent you in court if necessary.
What Are the Window Tinting Laws in Florida?
The state of Florida has had strict window tinting laws in place since 1991. The main concern is something called “visible light transmission,” often abbreviated as simply “VLT.” This is how much light permeates through the window after the window film has been installed. When insufficient light permeates the windows of the car, this can lead to serious safety concerns, as the driver cannot clearly see the road.
To address these concerns, Florida has several specific regulations when it comes to auto window tinting:
- Non-reflective tint can only be placed on a windshield if it is above the vehicle’s AS-1 line.
- The front side windows must allow more than 28% of light to permeate through.
- The rear window and rear side windows must allow more than 6% of light to permeate through. Rear side windows on a sedan must allow more than 15% of light to permeate through.
- Front side windows must not be more than 25% reflective.
- Rear side windows must not be more than 35% reflective.
- Colored tint is not permitted.
For reference, the AS-1 line typically runs horizontally across the windshield, about five inches from the upper edge of the glass.
Can You Sue Someone with an Illegally Tinted Window?
When someone suffers a serious injury after a car accident in Florida, no-fault insurance laws no longer apply. This means that you can sue the negligent driver directly. In order to do this, you need to establish that their negligence led directly to your crash. The fact that they tinted their windows illegally may have been a factor that caused the accident. In addition, the driver may be held criminally negligent due to the illegal window tint.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
For help from an experienced Orlando car accident attorney, reach out to Payer Law. We understand that there may be several factors that lead to car accidents, including illegally tinted windows and other clear signs of negligence. Book your consultation today, and you can strive for justice and hold criminally negligent drivers accountable.
