Highway patrol to look at tinting

Brisbane Water Highway Patrol has warned Peninsula drivers that vehicles with illegal film on their windows run the risk of receiving a defect notice and possible legal proceedings.

Senior Constable Steve Russell said officers from the Brisbane Waters Highway Patrol would be looking to inspect any vehicle if suspected of displaying illegal window tint on local roads including on the Peninsula.

"If it is believed the tint contravenes NSW law then it may be defected and a fine may be issued," Senior Constable Russell said.

"If the vehicle is defected it will need to be rectified and inspected to have the defect status removed.

"Highway Patrol officers are now equipped with roadside testing facilities to determine if tint does not comply.

"Tinted windscreens or windows not in accordance with NSW standards are unsafe as they impede driver vision especially for reversing, parking and lane changing.

"If a motor vehicle is involved in a collision that results in death or serious injury, and illegal window tinting is a contributing factor, drivers risk legal action."

Window Film Association of Australia and New Zealand (WFAANZ) president Mr Rob Hamilton said car owners ran the risk of having an insurance claim refused if a car is deemed unroadworthy because of illegal film.

Mr Hamilton advised Peninsula car owners choose a credible installer to the apply film.

"When used correctly window film provides great protection, but be wary of tinters that recommend dark film for your car," Mr Hamilton said.

"Window Film Association of Australia and New Zealand has received reports of Central Coast installers applying 15 per cent visible light transmittance film, and telling car owners it is legal. "Motorists need to know that any film darker than 35 per cent VLT is not acceptable, at worst it could lead to an accident and at best it could result in a fine.

"Window film applicators may also face fines or criminal action if installing film illegally."

Mr Hamilton said drivers wanting to boost safety, security, comfort and reduce glare and UV exposure often turn to window film and when applied correctly, it could protects a car's interior and its passengers from the sun's harmful rays.

"The question then is how to ensure the window film is compliant," Mr Hamilton said.

"The solution is simple.

"Just ensure your tinter is aware of the NSW standards.

"Contact your local WFAANZ member as they have access to the latest updates and training and abide by a strict industry code of practice."

The NSW auto film regulations and a list of installers can be found at www.wfaanz.org.au

A visible light transmittance (VLT) rating measures the amount of light that passes through tinted glass.

The lower the VLT light percentage, the darker the film.

NSW law requires that newly tinted side and rear windows maintain a VLT of at least 35 per cent and no film at all can appear on the lower part of the windscreen.

Press release, 23 Sep 2010 Ally Cronan, WFAANZ