Is It Illegal To Drive Without Windshield Wipers?
Windshield wiper blades are some of the most important vehicle parts. They help you clear your windshield for a better view when it rains or snows. It is crucial to have them working for your safety and that of oncoming drivers or pedestrians. However, will the law hold you liable for not having them?
Driving a car without windshield wipers is illegal in most states in the United States if not all. According to the National Road Traffic Act, all vehicles with a windshield are mandated to use windshield wipers controlled by the driver to remove snow, rain, and other moisture. The only exception will be for motorcycles, and antique cars made initially without windshields or wipers.
More insights into the law on windshield wipers
According to most states in the United States, simply having windshield wipers is not the end. Your windshield wipers are required to be in perfect working conditions and meet the state’s requirements. It also doesn’t need there. Many states also require you to turn on your headlights whenever your windshield wipers are working.
According to the Oregon Public Law, you are liable for driving any car on the highway that has a windshield but not at least one windshield wiper arm. The law also holds you accountable for owning a car or knowingly giving it to someone else, operating it on the highway without a windshield wiper.
The California laws, among many others, also consider it a violation of traffic regulations if you use your car without a windshield wiper. The law states that the windshield is required to be used under fog, rain, or snow and must be able to effectively clear the windshield in both ordinary storms and load conditions.
It is evident from the above laws that these states are not only particular about using a windshield wiper, but drivers are also advised to use windshield wipers that are working perfectly well for their safety. Failure to adhere to this may warrant fines to be paid. That said, how do you know if your windshield wipers are working as they should?
Signs of worn-out windshield wipers
Worn or loose windshield wipers will not only land you in legal trouble but can also make it difficult for you to see through your windshield. Experts advise motorists to look out for these tell-tale signs that show their wipers may not be in good condition.
1. Lifting
This happens when the wiper skips a good portion of the windshield, leaving moisture still hanging on the windshield’s surface. This can be corrected by a mechanic who will either change the blade or the arm of the wiper.
2. Streaking
Streaking happens when the wiper has had its rubber blade cracked or hardened and cannot smoothly glide over the surface of the windshield. This may not lead to any dangerous accident with your car but can get you in trouble with a very observant officer. Quickly head to your mechanic and have the blades changed.
3. Squeaking
Fortunately, driving with this kind of wiper does not necessarily mean you have to change it just yet, nor can it get you in any legal trouble, but it is a sign of a worn wiper. However, the squeaking sound means that the element is hardened and misshapen.
4. Stuck
A stuck windshield wiper is just as bad as not having a wiper at all. You are required to replace your wiper if it has stopped moving or is broken. Driving with a faulty wiper can heavily impair visibility and land you a few fines to pay.
Your vehicle must be equipped with the proper working windshields, lights, and wipers that are not obstructing the visibility of the road and other drivers.
Violations and punishments
In many states in the United States, you will be fined and can even be arrested for driving without proper windshields and wipers. You may also be asked to fix your broken wiper, windshield, or lights to give you better control and visibility on the road.
If you have had previous warnings to repair your wiper within 48 hours before getting on the road, you may be arrested, and a steep fine may be levied on you. Contact your mechanic as quickly as possible to avoid the risk of losing your vehicle.
Although, in most states, officials may not pull you over for not having working wipers, it isn’t legal to drive without them.
How to maintain your windshield wiper?
Having your windshield and wiper maintained is one of the essential things to do. It is super-easy to identify a faulty wiper windshield. Never forget to clean your wiper blades at least once a week to remove loose dirt and soil. It would be best if you also avoided parking your vehicles under the sun, as this can weaken your windshield and harden the rubber blades of your wiper.
Flip the wiper over and clean out all the corners to ensure no signs of dirt are evident. Avoid attempting to use your wiper to clean mud or clear ice from your windshield, as this can very easily scratch your screen or snap the windshield wiper. Always wait for the ice to melt or use an ice scraper.
The law on windshields, wipers, and lights
According to the State Department of Transportation, drivers cannot be held liable for driving without wipers if the vehicle was initially made without a windshield. A good example is the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2. There’s also an exception to these laws if a driver hits the road with an antique car with no original wiper. Thankfully, you can turn to a technician to install wipers for your safety.
It is also illegal in most states for a driver to drive in the rain without headlights. It is imperative to have your headlights on so an oncoming driver or pedestrian can see your car when there is heavy fog, snow, or rain.
Can you drive with broken wipers?
For the sake and safety of you and other drivers, it is dangerous to drive with faulty wipers, especially when it rains or snows. It is crucial to fix your defective wipers before getting on the road.
Conclusion
Following all discussions on driving without windshield wipers, ensure to review the laws on the windshield in your state before driving because there can be a few additions or exceptions to the laws in different states. However, one thing is common; driving without windshields is illegal and must be avoided.
