Gardai warn of little change to cars that many think isn't illegal as driver arrested

Gardai have warned Irish drivers over a common feature that is believed to be legal but is in fact a breach of Irish law in some instances.

The reminder comes after a driver was pulled over in Tipperary for having their windows ‘tinted to an extreme degree.’

After being pulled over this weekend, officers realised something wasn’t right and carried out a roadside test with the driver. He then tested positive for Cocaine and Cannabis.

READ MORE: Garda Checkpoints: Public call for Naas driver's penalty to be doubled for 'cruel' offence

He was arrested on the spot for the numerous law breaks and is due to appear in court.

Gardai confirmed in a post on Twitter: “Tipperary RPU stopped this car driving through Thurles yesterday.

“On inspection the windscreen was tinted to an extreme degree causing the driver to have little visibility of the road. The driver tested positive for Cocaine and Cannabis.

“They were arrested with court to follow.”

The regulations around window tinting in Ireland are extremely strict and only allow for a certain modification within the legal limits.

According to the Road Safety Authority, “Heavily tinted windows present a significant safety hazard for vehicle drivers and their occupants.

“Visibility is greatly reduced particularly at night-time or times of low light and may prevent drivers from seeing other road users or pedestrians.”

Gardai warn of little change to cars that many think isn't illegal as driver arrested (An Garda Siochana)

Gardai warn of little change to cars that many think isn't illegal as driver arrested (An Gardai siochana)

In a post on Facebook earlier this year, a spokesperson for an Garda Siochana wrote: “There is a misguided perception that drivers with illegal modifications are entitled to a pass because there's more serious crimes being committed. This isn't the case.

“The Road Safety Authority is tasked with a similar mission to ourselves with regard to reducing collisions and injuries on our roads.”

Speaking about those who wish to make similar unique changes to their cars, the spokesperson said: “Vehicle owners are welcome to stamp their individuality on their cars but such modifications must be legal or said users are quite literally inviting prosecution.”

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