Can You Drive with Plastic on Your Back Window: A Practical Guide

The decision to cover your car's back window with plastic might seem unconventional, but it can serve a variety of purposes. In this article, we'll explore the practical aspects of driving with a plastic-covered back window, the potential benefits, and the legal considerations.

Testing the Waters: A Practical Experiment

One day, I decided to conduct a small experiment. I had some pieces of plastic and a roll of duct tape on hand, and I wondered if it would be safe to drive with plastic on my back window. Here’s what happened:

Materials and Preparation

I taped the plastic pieces onto the windows that I could access—both the big back window and the side windows for the rear seats. I then took the truck for a spin around the block. To my relief, there was no noticeable impact on my ability to drive, and the overall driveability of the truck remained unchanged.

After this small experiment, I can confidently say that it is possible to drive with plastic on the back window. However, it’s important to ensure that any modifications do not compromise the safety of other road users.

Advantages of Using Plastic on the Back Window

Despite the potential drawbacks, there are some advantages to using plastic on your back window:

Economic and Practical Solutions

Cost-effective: Plastic sheets are usually cheaper than glass and can be sourced inexpensively. This can be particularly useful for temporary repairs or as a protective measure.

Easy to Apply: Duct tape provides a simple and quick method to attach plastic to your windows, making it an accessible solution for DIY enthusiasts.

Enhanced Safety: While covering the back window with plastic might seem like a risk, it can actually enhance safety. For instance, it can act as a protective barrier, helping to hold broken glass in place.

Alternative Material: Clear Packing Tape

For those seeking an even more aesthetically pleasing and functional option, clear packing tape offers several advantages:

Pros of Clear Packing Tape

Cheap and easy to use, providing a temporary solution without the need for professional installation.

Long-lasting and durable, making it a viable option for extended periods.

Waterproof and UV-resistant, ensuring it stays in place even in adverse weather conditions.

Pretty good visibility, allowing you to maintain clear sightlines while protecting the glass.

Quieter than plastic, reducing wind noise and providing a more comfortable driving experience.

Legal Considerations and Safety

While driving with plastic on your back window might seem like an unconventional choice, it is important to consider the legal and safety implications:

Legal Requirements and Modern Technology

Modern cars and trucks often incorporate technologies such as rear-view cameras, which can function as a makeshift rear window. According to the law, it is not a legal requirement to be able to see out of your rear window provided you have two side mirrors. Therefore, most vans and lorries, regardless of their condition, are generally exempt from this requirement.

The law may eventually catch up with modern technology, but for now, the current regulations provide a lenient stance on this matter. However, it's always advisable to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and visible to other drivers at all times.

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving with plastic on your back window may seem like a strange idea, but it can be a practical solution in certain scenarios. Whether it's cost-effectiveness, ease of application, or enhanced safety, there are several reasons to consider this approach. Always prioritize safety, and make sure that any modifications do not compromise the visibility or safety of your vehicle and other road users.