are curtains legal in car?

🚘 Are Curtains Legal in Cars? A Deep Dive into Road Rules and Realities

Car curtains might seem like a stylish and practical way to beat the heat or add a touch of privacy—but are they actually legal? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Let’s unravel the legal, safety, and practical aspects of using curtains in vehicles.

⚖️ The Legal Landscape

In many countries, including India, the use of car curtains is governed by traffic safety laws that prioritize visibility and public security. Here’s what the law generally says:

• Obstruction of Visibility: Any accessory that blocks the driver’s view or prevents law enforcement from seeing inside the vehicle is considered illegal.
• Supreme Court Ruling (India): In 2012, the Supreme Court banned the use of sun films and other visibility-blocking materials, including curtains, on car windows2.
• Visible Light Transmission (VLT): Regulations require:
  • 70% VLT for front and rear windshields
  • 50% VLT for side windows

Curtains, especially opaque ones, typically violate these standards.

🚨 Why Curtains Are Restricted

The ban isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s rooted in safety and security concerns:

• Crime Prevention: Opaque curtains can conceal illegal activities inside vehicles.
• Road Safety: They increase blind spots and reduce peripheral vision, especially when changing lanes or navigating intersections.
• Law Enforcement: Police need to see inside vehicles during routine checks for public safety.

🩺 Exceptions and Loopholes

Interestingly, there are a few exceptions:

• Medical Grounds: In rare cases, courts have allowed curtains for health reasons, such as protecting sensitive skin from UV rays.
• Curtains Not Touching Glass: Some argue that curtains placed 1–2 inches away from the window glass may not technically violate the law—but this is a gray area and enforcement varies by region.

✅ Legal Alternatives to Curtains

If you’re looking for sun protection or privacy without breaking the law, consider:

• RTO-approved UV Cut Glass
• Retractable Sunshades (factory-fitted or removable)
• Mesh Sunshields that don’t obstruct visibility
• Tinted Windows within legal VLT limits

These options offer comfort while keeping you compliant.

💡 Final Thoughts

While car curtains might seem harmless, they can land you in legal trouble if they obstruct visibility. The safest route? Stick to approved alternatives and always check local traffic laws before making modifications. After all, comfort shouldn’t come at the cost of safety—or a hefty fine.