Police amnesty will help motorists to see the light

NORTH Devon police are offering an amnesty to motorists who have illegally tinted windows in their vehicles. They are concerned that despite a previous attempt to get the message home many cars still have darkened windows that restrict drivers' vision, pa

NORTH Devon police are offering an amnesty to motorists who have illegally tinted windows in their vehicles.They are concerned that despite a previous attempt to get the message home many cars still have darkened windows that restrict drivers' vision, particularly at night.By law, windscreens must allow at least 75 per cent of available light through; front side windows must allow at least 70 per cent. Other windows are exempt.Motorists with illegally tinted windows could be prosecuted and, in more serious cases, action could be taken for using a vehicle in a dangerous condition, which could carry a fine of up to £2,500, disqualification and three penalty points.But it is recognised that many motorists might not realise they are breaking the law, so are being given an opportunity to put things right.North Devon and Torridge road casualty reduction officer PC Nick Porter, said: "It is appreciated that many drivers have no real way of knowing if their windows are road legal or not, so police are offering drivers the chance of having their windows checked free of charge by officers using the latest equipment. This will take place at Barnstaple Civic Centre car park on Sunday, April 20 between 12 noon and 4pm. "Drivers will not be prosecuted if their vehicles fail to comply with the law, but will be given suitable advice. After this date there will be a more robust enforcement of the law in this respect."The overall factor is clearly one of road safety. Heavily tinted windows severely restrict visibility, particularly at night, and we are committed to reducing the number of serious collisions in our area.