Having a cluttered windshield may not seem like a big deal. But in reality, having an obstructed view of the road is not only dangerous; it may even be a ticketable offense. Windshield obstructions can come in many forms: hanging objects from your rearview mirror, loose mail or other items piled up on your dash, or even stickers and other decals stuck to your windshield directly. To ensure that you’re driving as safely as possible we encourage that you keep windshield clutter to the minimum. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule and some obstructions are permitted under law. To better understand Arkansas state law in regards to windshield clutter and other obstructions please refer to the list below:

Objects that are acceptable to display  

Not all windshield obstructions are illegal or dangerous. According to Arkansas Code section 27-37-302: “No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield, sidewings, side, or rear windows of the vehicle other than a certificate or other paper required to be so displayed by law if it obstructs the operator’s view or the safe operation of the vehicle.” This law establishes that it is essentially up to the officers discretion to determine whether or not a windshield obstruction is a ticketable offense (except in cases where a certificate or paper is legally required to be displayed).

Are GPS devices permitted?

Some newer vehicles come pre-equipped with GPS devices but many still do not. Mounted GPS devices are permitted under law so long as a few precautionary measures are taken. To minimize distractions while driving, you should be sure to never attach your GPS to your windshield directly. Instead, opt to attach your device to your dashboard instead. This will allow you to still safely view your GPS device while navigating the roads, without placing it between you and your view of the road. 

Are stickers permitted? 

Again, similar to official paperwork or identifiers required by law, many schools and jobs require us to display certain decals or stickers on our cars windshield. You will be encouraged to know that there are certainly legal considerations that allow such stickers and decals so long as you follow a few guidelines. According to Arkansas Code section 27-37-302: “(a) (1) (A) It is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle which has any substance or material except rearview mirrors and decals required by law attached to the windshield at any point more than four and one-half inches (4 1/2”) above the bottom of the windshield if the substance or material obstructs the operator’s view or the safe operation of the vehicle.” This law essentially establishes that you can attach stickers or decals to your windshield, so long as they do not extend beyond (4 1/2”) from the bottom of your windshield.

For more information, or to schedule a windshield repair, contact us at Fast Glass today!