All states have different obstructed and cracked windshield restrictions, and windshield replacement requirements. Cracked windshield laws in Louisiana prohibit driving vehicles where driver’s view of the road is obstructed, but also specify in detail what kind of window cracks are illegal.
Can I drive with a cracked windshield in Louisiana?
Louisiana laws have detailed restrictions on the size and type of cracks allowed on windshields:
- Cracks are not allowed if directly in driver’s vision.
- No more than two chips, half-moons, nicks or stars may be within driver’s line of vision.
- Star cracks greater than two inches are not permitted on driver’s side.
- No more than two star cracks over 1.5″ in diameter are allowed on driver’s side.
- Two or more cracks larger than 8 inches in diameter are not permitted on driver’s side.
Other laws and regulations:
- Obstructed windshield regulations: Signs, posters, and similar non-transparent materials on windshields are not legal. This excludes stickers required by law.
- Replacement windshields: All window repairs should restore vehicle to its original state. Replacement windshield glass must be of the same kind and quality as original.
- Windshield wipers: Vehicles must be equipped with windshield wipers in good working conditions. Cracks which prevent wipers from operating correctly may be illegal.
- Windshield insurance: Maximum deductible with comprehensive insurance is $250. Find if your insurance company can pay for windshield repairs.
Federal cracked windshield regulations
Federal regulations specify that drivers need to have a clear vision of the road. Windshield cracks or chips smaller than ¾-inch in diameter are permitted, but they must be at least 3 inches from another crack.
All cracks, or chips, or other damage which can potentially obstruct clear view of the road must not be within critical vision area, defined as area directly above the steering wheel, two inches from the top and one inch from sides.
