Crackdown on tinted car windows

People driving cars with excessively tinted windows are the focus of a new campaign by Leicestershire police.

The crackdown over the winter months will also target those who supply and fit such windows.

Police said front windscreens should allow 75% of light through, and front door windows 70%, otherwise road users could be put in danger.

But Sgt David Morris of Leicestershire Police said more and more cars were failing to meet those standards.

Car checks

He said: "An increasing number of vehicles have been checked around the county with levels as low as 5%, which is very dangerous.

"Any windows that allow less than 45% of light through leave the driver open to prosecution.

"If the amount of light is below 25% then the driver is likely to receive three penalty points and a fine of £60."

He said officers would be checking cars with tinted windows for light levels over the winter months.

The scheme is a joint initiative between Leicestershire Constabulary's Road Policing Unit and the county's Trading Standards department.