Car Window Tint Laws In Berrien County Michigan
Are you considering installing window tints on your car in Berrien County, Michigan? Before you do, you should be aware of the laws governing car window tinting in Michigan. Window tinting laws vary from state to state and even from county to county. It is important to know the laws in your area to avoid being ticketed or fined. In this article, we will discuss the car window tint laws in Berrien County, Michigan, and all you need to know before tinting your car windows.
What is Car Window Tinting?
Car window tinting involves applying a thin film or layer of material to the inside or outside of the car's windows. The tint reduces the amount of light that passes through the glass and provides additional privacy to the car's occupants. Car window tinting can also reduce the amount of heat that enters the vehicle, making the interior cooler on hot days.
Why are there Laws Governing Car Window Tinting?
The laws governing car window tinting are in place to protect law enforcement officers and ensure that drivers have a clear line of sight while driving. Tinted windows can make it difficult for police officers to see inside a vehicle, which can be a safety concern. Tinted windows can also reduce the driver's visibility, especially at night or in low light conditions.
What are the Car Window Tint Laws in Berrien County, Michigan?
In Berrien County, Michigan, the laws governing car window tinting are as follows:
Front Windshield:
Michigan law prohibits the use of tinting film on the front windshield, except for medical exemptions. A medical exemption requires a written statement from a licensed physician, stating that a person has a medical condition that requires protection from the sun's rays.
Front Side Windows:
Michigan law allows a minimum of 35% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) for front side windows. This means that the tint must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through the window.
Rear Side Windows:
Michigan law allows a minimum of 35% VLT for rear side windows. This means that the tint must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through the window.
Rear Windshield:
Michigan law allows a minimum of 35% VLT for the rear windshield. This means that the tint must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through the window.
What are the Consequences of Violating Car Window Tint Laws in Berrien County, Michigan?
If you violate car window tint laws in Berrien County, Michigan, you may be subject to a fine. The amount of the fine varies depending on the violation. For example, if you have tinted windows that do not meet the minimum VLT requirements, you may be fined up to $150. If you have tinted windows on the front windshield, you may be fined up to $200. If you have a medical exemption for tinted windows on the front windshield, you may not be fined.
What are the Benefits of Tinting your Car Windows?
There are several benefits to tinting your car windows, including:
Privacy:
Tinted windows provide additional privacy to the car's occupants, making it more difficult for people to see inside the car. This can be especially beneficial if you have valuable items in your car that you do not want to be visible to others.
Protection from UV Rays:
Tinted windows can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays from the sun. This can help protect the car's interior from fading and cracking over time. It can also help protect the car's occupants from skin damage caused by prolonged exposure to the sun.
Cooler Interior:
Tinted windows can reduce the amount of heat that enters the car's interior, making it more comfortable to drive on hot days. This can also help reduce the amount of energy needed to cool the car's interior, which can save you money on gas.
How to Choose the Right Window Tint for your Car?
Choosing the right window tint for your car can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the different types of tint available. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right window tint for your car:
Legal Requirements:
Make sure that the tint you choose meets the legal requirements for your area. In Berrien County, Michigan, the minimum VLT for front and rear side windows is 35%.
Type of Tint:
There are several types of tint available, including dyed, metalized, and ceramic. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, dyed tint is more affordable than other types but may fade over time. Metalized tint is more durable but can interfere with radio and GPS signals. Ceramic tint is the most expensive but provides the best heat reduction and does not interfere with signals.
Color:
The color of the tint can also affect its performance. Darker tints may provide more privacy but can also reduce visibility. Lighter tints may not provide as much privacy but can be more comfortable to drive with.
Conclusion
Before tinting your car windows in Berrien County, Michigan, make sure to familiarize yourself with the laws governing car window tinting. Remember that violating these laws can result in fines, so it is important to choose a tint that meets the legal requirements for your area. Consider the type and color of the tint before making a decision.