The Director of Research, Training and Education at Ghana's Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), ACP Alexander Obeng, has raised concerns about the use of heavily tinted vehicle windows. He warned that this practice could facilitate criminal activities and compromise public safety. According to ACP Obeng, Ghana's vehicle regulations require motorists to maintain adequate visibility based on the global road-safety principle of "see and be seen".
ACP Obeng stated that vehicle windows must allow at least 70 per cent light transmission, making it possible for people outside to see the occupants. He emphasized that even if tint is applied, it should allow anyone 60 meters away to see inside the vehicle. The regulation aims to ensure that drivers have full visibility of traffic and maintain complete control of their vehicles while driving.
The tinting of front windscreens is strictly prohibited, as it obstructs drivers' view of the road and other vehicles. ACP Obeng stressed that the front windscreen should be left clear of any tint or obstruction, allowing drivers to have unhindered visibility of traffic. This regulation is crucial for maintaining road safety and preventing accidents.
Beyond road safety, ACP Obeng expressed concerns that excessively dark vehicle windows could be exploited by criminals. He cited instances from other countries where heavily tinted vehicles had allegedly been used to facilitate serious crimes, including terrorism. The restrictions on tinted vehicles aim to promote transparency, accountability, and security on public roads.
ACP Obeng clarified that exemptions from these regulations apply only to specific vehicles used by the President for official duties, designated security agencies, emergency medical services, and institutions responsible for transporting cash and bullion. He rejected the assumption that every government vehicle was exempt from the regulations, emphasizing that only specific vehicles qualify for exemptions.
ACP Obeng advised motorists who had installed excessively dark tinting materials, particularly on their front windscreens, to remove them. He emphasized that it is against the law to have heavily tinted vehicle windows and that motorists should comply with the regulations to avoid penalties.
The regulations on vehicle tinting aim to balance individual preferences with public safety and security concerns. By enforcing these regulations, the Ghana Police Service seeks to prevent crimes and ensure road safety. Motorists are expected to adhere to the regulations and maintain vehicle windows that allow for adequate visibility.
Key points
- He warned that heavily tinted vehicle windows could facilitate criminal activities and compromise public safety.
- Vehicle windows must allow at least 70 per cent light transmission to ensure visibility.
- Exemptions from regulations apply only to specific vehicles used for official duties or designated purposes.
