Modified Cars - Staying On The Right Side Of The Law
With a big increase in the number of modified cars in the last few years and easier availability of parts, it's never been easier or more tempting to 'pimp your ride'. But many people get caught out on the details of what's legal and what's not. With this in mind, the following article aims to provide information to help you stay on the right side of the law when modifying your vehicle. Tinted WindowsDifferent levels of tinting are permitted depending on the position of the window in question. Rear windows may be tinted to any degree, but driver and front passenger windows as well the windscreen must not impair vision. This has been defined such that they must permit at least 70 of visible light to travel through them. This can be a tricky line to keep on the right side of, so unless consulting a professional, it's best to leave the front windows as they are.Neon LightingNeon lighting has become one of the more popular options for modified car owners as it can be relatively cheap and adds an instant effect. Undercar Neon Lights: Neon tubes under the car are permitted as long ONLY THE GLOW is visible, and not the tube itself. If possible, it is best to have them fitted professionally, with a switch to allow you to turn them on and off.Interior Neon Lights: As with exterior lights, interior bulbs or tubes should not be visible, and have only their glow showing. Again it is best if you can have them fitted by a profesional and a switch installed to turn them off.Any lighting you have on your vehicle must not distract you or any other drivers. It is is for this reason that it is advisable to make sure any neon lights are easily turned off if you are asked to do so.Vehicle LightingExterior vehicle lighting such as head-lights and side indicators must meet the legal requirements. This meansTwo white lights at the frontTwo red lights at the backOrange turning lights at front, rear, and on both sidesThese lights must remain visible and useable, despite any other modifications you may have made.Radar/Laser DetectorsNot strictly a modification but still an area which causes confusion over legality. GPS or similar systems which can alert you to any nearby cameras are perfectly legal. Some newer road maps now even include the location of many cameras.Laser detectors however are now illegal, as are any systems which either jam or don't reflect radar or laser signals.
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