In Illinois, before you drive a car off the lot for a test drive or to take it home, all stickers and signage must be removed. Otherwise, it’s a violation of a recently passed state law. Across the nation, state laws vary regarding how to treat the use of stickers and obstructive objects on car windows. Dealers use stickers to advertise brands and products to sell cars.
Placement of stickers on the windshield and other windows falls under equipment laws in Illinois. Here’s how the new law could impact drivers in the state.
Illinois Window Sticker Laws
Illinois doesn’t allow any objects or materials to be attached to windows or the windshield if the object reduces the driver’s view of the road.
The so-called Illinois window sticker laws don’t mention window stickers. Instead, it prohibits all objects “materially obstructing driver’s view.” In essence, all stickers not required by law are presumably illegal on the front and back windshield, and the same goes for the front and back side windows.
If you place window stickers on your car or cars for sale at your dealership, make sure they are small and in the corners, (on passenger’s side is the safest alternative). Limit any stickers to the essentials, since all stickers can “reduce” your view. Err on the side of caution, in case you are pulled over by a police officer. Citations can be issued for any stickers that are non-mandatory, and it’s at the officer’s discretion whether it blocks your vision.
Death of Brendan Burke Sparked the New Law
Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State, presented the new law. He called it a common-sense solution to make sure a driver’s vantage is not compromised to the detriment of safe driving conditions.
The bill picked up supporter when Brendon Burke was killed in a crash involving a man test driving a car with decals and paper blocking the road from his view.
Legal Recourse for Personal Injury in an Accident
Experts suggest that you seek legal advice for if you are in an accident involving car stickers or any other circumstances where you need help in determining your rights under the law. Ankin law offices in Chicago offer the following advice to accident victims.
“A successful personal injury claim may allow you to recover compensation for the following expenses and damages: medical bills, lost income, future medical bills and care, and pain and suffering…Experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers understand the complexities involved with personal injury cases, as well as the importance of presenting adequate supporting evidence.”
This article was first published by The Global Dispatch.
