Is it Illegal to Drive Without a Side Mirror?

Those side-view mirrors that protrude out on either side of a motor vehicle get knocked, bumped, broken, and vandalized more often than most people expect. If you're driving around with a broken side mirror, you might be wondering whether law enforcement can pull you over, or ticket you if you don't get it fixed right away.

Unfortunately, the answer is: it depends. Not only do the vehicle code and traffic laws vary from state to state, but what is considered required safety equipment also varies. While there are federal guidelines that set requirements that specifically mandate side mirrors and a rear-view mirror, the federal guidelines apply more to manufacturers than to drivers. The state traffic laws about mirror requirements will apply to drivers and govern when a driver can be pulled over and ticketed for a missing mirror or broken wiper.

Rear-View Required

The federal guidelines require new cars to be built with a rearview mirror, a driver’s side mirror, and a passenger side mirror that meet specific visibility requirements. State laws control what a car owner must do if they plan to drive on the road. Mirror laws exist to protect drivers so that they have a clear view of the highway and no blind spots while they are changing lanes. So, if your state's traffic laws require that a car have one or two side-view mirrors, and one of your side mirrors is broken, you can be pulled over and ticketed. While specifics vary, all states do require drivers to be able to see behind them with at least one mirror.

Fortunately, if it is just a matter of a broken side mirror, many states allow officers to issue "Fix-It" tickets. These tickets either allow a fine to be waived, or reduced, if the problem can be, and is, fixed within an allotted time period and the person provides proof of the repair.

Improvements in Automotive Technology

There have been recent improvements in automotive technology. Many vehicles now have cameras installed at different angles to allow for a full view of every side of the vehicle as well as recording ability if there is a fender bender. Automakers have also started using digital displays either as a heads-up display on the windshield or on a main screen directly in the driver’s view. These improvements have also had an effect on the design of outside mirrors and center mirrors where some are being replaced with video cameras that are streamed into the cabin of the car. Ultimately these technological improvements may make the entire driving experience safer.

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