"In the UK, it is an offence to drive a vehicle with a broken or damaged windscreen or windows if it affects the driver's view of the road. According to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, a vehicle must be constructed and maintained so that the driver has a clear view of the road to the front and to the sides.
| Condition | Legal? | Notes | |-----------|--------|-------| | | Likely legal (but may fail inspection) | Risk: crack can spread. | | Shattered but still in place (spiderweb) | Illegal | The distortion makes rear view useless; sharp fragments are a hazard. | | Missing entirely (hole) | Illegal for cars (legal for some trucks/vans) | For a saloon/sedan or hatchback: creates sharp edges, suction into cabin, exhaust fume risk. | | Broken but temporarily covered with clear tape/plastic | Usually illegal | Tape will not be considered a permanent or safe repair. Police may view it as makeshift and dangerous. | | Hatchback with broken glass but tailgate closed | Illegal | The rear windscreen on a hatchback is often structural for the tailgate. Driving risks glass falling onto road. | | Convertible with no rear window (from factory) | Legal | Design does not require one. | is it legal to drive with a broken rear windscreen
It is recommended to have a broken rear windscreen repaired or replaced as soon as possible to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road." "In the UK, it is an offence to
While specific statutes vary by country and state, the core requirement is and roadworthiness . Reddit·r/drivingUK | Notes | |-----------|--------|-------| | | Likely legal
Even beyond the letter of the law, here is why police and courts take it seriously:
The only safe and lawful course of action is to repair it before driving, or have the vehicle towed. Do not rely on “it’s only the back window” – the law and safety both demand a clear, intact rear windscreen.
In many jurisdictions, driving with a broken rear windscreen is not considered safe and may be against the law. Here are some general guidelines: