Window Tinting and Safety: What You Need to Know
Posted on: 23 May 2016
If you like the idea of tinted windows but you want to ensure your car is as safe as possible, there are a few things you need to know about window tinting. Window tinting can increase the safety of your vehicle, but only if it is used correctly and strategically. Here are some tips to help you:
1. Choose the maximum level of tint allowed in your area.
In Australia, there are laws regarding how much light must be able to pass through your car windows. Shading is measured in VLT or visible light transmission, and it is expressed as a percentage. The lower the percentage, the less sunlight can pass through your windows. If you want the most protection from the sun, you need to choose the lowest VLT legally allowed in your area.
However, to protect yourself legally, you also need to make sure that you do not purchase window tinting that falls below the minimum legal VLT threshold in your area. Professional window tinters understand the law and follow it, but if you are having an amateur (such as a friend or neighbour who likes to work on cars) apply your window tint or if you are buying a used car, you need to make sure the level of tint is legal. A professional window tinter can help you identify tint levels, or there are also smartphone apps you can use to detect tint levels.
2. Tint rear windows as well as passenger windows.
In many cases, tint is touted as a way to protect drivers from the sun, and because of this, if you don't frequently carry children or other passengers in your car, you may be tempted to only tint the front windows. However, you should consider tinting the back windows as well.
It creates a cohesive look for your car, but more importantly, it protects your possessions from the prying eyes of thieves. Window tint doesn't just add safety to your car by protecting your car from the sun; it can also work as a potential theft deterrent. If you have your laptop, a guitar or anything else in the back seat of your car, tinted windows help hide that fact.
3. Do not tint your front windscreen.
You are only allowed to add tinted film to your side and rear windows. Do not add it to your front window -- it impairs visibility, and again, it puts you at risk of fines or tickets.
Want to learn more about safe car window tinting? Contact a professional tinter today.
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