Obstructed windshields, cracked windshields, windshield replacement and other laws and regulations are different for every state. Cracked windshield laws in Rhode Island prohibit driving vehicles where driver’s view of the road is obstructed.
Can I drive with a cracked windshield in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island laws have detailed restrictions on the size and type of cracks allowed on windshields:
- Cracks which allow the glass to move or which damage the safety seal inside the glass layers are not permitted.
- Cracks, chips or other damage within windshield wiper area in front of the driver are not permitted.
- Minor cracks without areas of separation are allowed only if not directly in front of the driver.
- Discoloration is only permitted along the edges of the windshield.
Rhose Island laws also prohibit driving with impaired or obstructed view of the road. No stickers or other objects may be attached to car windshields which prevent clear view of the road.
Other laws and regulations:
- Obstructed windshield regulations: No sign, poster, or other non-transparent material is allowed on windshield which can impair driver’s view of the road, except those required by law.
- Replacement windshields: Replacement windshield glass must be of the same kind and quality, and any repairs should restore vehicle to its original state.
- Windshield wipers: Vehicles must be equipped with windshield wipers in good working conditions. Cracks which prevent wipers from operating correctly may be illegal.
Federal cracked windshield regulations
Federal regulations require drivers to have a clear vision of the road. Windshield cracks or chips smaller than ¾-inch in diameter are permitted if they are not located within 3″ of another crack.
Any 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.
