Ignored Vehicle Repairs that Could Get You Pulled Over

When it comes to vehicle repairs, your safety and the safety of the other drivers and pedestrians around you is of the utmost importance. If you notice something is broken or not quite functioning right with your vehicle, then it’s best to take it in to get repaired as soon as possible.

Another reason why vehicle repairs are important is because they could actually cause you to get pulled over and in some cases even get a ticket. When you get pulled over for an issue with your vehicle, it is really for your own safety. However, it’s best to avoid this altogether and make the necessary repairs to your vehicle before getting pulled over.

So which ignored vehicle repairs can actually cause you to get pulled over? The short answer is anything that is going to prevent you from driving safely (i.e. things that affect your sight, things that make it difficult to see your car at night, things that prevent your vehicle from functioning properly, etc.). Read on to find out the most common car issues that people ignore that could get you pulled over.

Windshield

Can you get pulled over for a cracked windshield? Yes, a cracked windshield can inhibit your ability to see properly which could be dangerous for you and others. Even if you just have a small chip in your windshield, it’s best to get it fixed quickly or else it will continue to splinter further and increase the size of the crack.

Another important thing to note regarding your windshield is that it is also possible to get pulled over for having a tint on your windshield. Depending on what state you’re in, the laws regarding windshield tint vary, but it’s important to know what level of tint (if any) is legal before getting your windshield tinted.

Lights

There are lots of questions when it comes to the lights on your vehicle: Can you get pulled over for the third brake light being out? Can you get a ticket for a broken tail light? Can you get a ticket for a broken headlight cover? When it comes to all lights on the outside of your vehicle, you are required to keep them maintained and in working order whenever you are operating your vehicle.

Therefore, it is really important to replace your bulbs if you notice one is out. And what’s even more important is checking to see if any are out. You can very easily have a headlight or tail light out without even knowing it’s out. This is typically why you’re pulled over for having a light out – most of the time this is the first time the driver is learning of this issue. To avoid getting pulled over, the possibility of a ticket, and to stay safe, be sure to check your lights regularly and replace any bulbs that are out.

Mirrors

Can you get a ticket for a missing mirror? You certainly can. If you’re missing one of your sideview or rearview mirrors, then this really inhibits your ability to drive safely. If there is damage to one of your mirrors, be sure to replace it as soon as possible as it is an important part of operating your vehicle safely.

License Plate

Can you get pulled over because of an issue with your license plate? Yes, if there is anything obstructing your license plate, you could get pulled over. While this doesn’t prevent you from safely operating your vehicle, it is a law that your license plate must be visible. 

This isn’t just related to license plate holders, but also the light that illuminates your license plate at night. Be sure to check and make sure that this light is functioning properly when checking your other lights.

Bumper

Can I drive with a damaged bumper? It depends on the severity of the damage. For example, if your bumper is hanging on by a thread, you are likely to get pulled over. Not only is this dangerous for you, but it could also fall off at any moment and be dangerous for other drivers as well. 

If you’ve got an issue with your car and you’re not sure whether or not it’s legal to drive, it’s always best to get it checked out by a professional. Be sure to get any issues with your vehicle repaired as quickly as possible to keep yourself and other drivers safe out on the road. If you have any other questions regarding vehicle repairs that could get you pulled over, visit us at GT Auto in South Jordan, UT today!