Forum: Removable screens on car windows can be an enforcement blind spot
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I welcome the proposed stricter penalties for drivers who hold mobile phones while driving but would like to raise a related concern: the use of removable dark screens on the front-door windows of vehicles.
These screens significantly obstruct sight-lines into the vehicle.
This creates an enforcement blind spot.
Drivers who illegally hold or use their mobile phones below window level are shielded from view, making it harder for enforcement officers and other road users to spot this dangerous behaviour.
The screens also restrict the driver’s own field of view. As a frequent passenger in private-hire vehicles, I have seen drivers having to lean or stretch forward to see through the small uncovered gap in their window, rather than having a clear, full view of their side mirror and surroundings.
This compromises their reaction time and awareness, particularly when changing lanes or checking blind spots.
Given that these screens are removable and not a permanent, tested part of the vehicle’s original design, the authorities should consider reviewing whether such screens should be restricted or banned outright on front-door windows, and assess the impact of such screens on enforcement visibility and driver sight-lines.
If the screens are retained, there should also be clear limits on tint level, coverage area and placement to preserve the driver’s line of sight.
Addressing this issue would complement the Government’s efforts to curb phone use while driving and would meaningfully improve road safety overall.
Ong Teck Chye
