Can you get pulled over for broken side mirror

Most of the cops in town are pretty laid back about fix-it things. If she does get pulled over, as long as she is cool with the cop he'll probably just give her a fix-it ticket. (i.e. fix-it, show court it's fixed, no fine, just time spent going down to court) if even that.

Edit: punctuation, spelling, formatting. Never post before morning coffee.

According to the California Vehicle Code, Section 26709, every motor vehicle that is subject to registration in the state of California, except motorcycles, must have two mirrors that reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle. One of the two mirrors MUST be on the left side of the vehicle.

The other rear-view mirror may be in the center of the windshield or on the right side of the vehicle, as most vehicles now are equipped from the manufacturer.

Although broken or missing rear-view mirrors are not expressly mentioned, reasonable standards should be applied here. Any vehicle that has a rear-view mirror that is broken or missing does not meet the state’s requirement of having two functional mirrors that provide a clear view behind the vehicle, especially if the broken or missing mirror is on the left side of the vehicle. To meet the state’s requirement, the left side rearview mirror and one other rear view mirror must be intact so that the driver can see clearly for at least 200 feet behind the vehicle.

Replacing rear-view mirrors is not necessarily a difficult task, although time can be a factor depending on which mirror needs attention. We’re here to help you keep your vehicle in safe operating condition and in compliance with existing vehicle laws.

It’s critical that you’re able to see behind and beside you while driving. This is accomplished by using the rearview mirror, or one of the two side view mirrors on your car. But what happens if a mirror is missing or damaged?...

It’s critical that you’re able to see behind and beside you while driving. This is accomplished by using the rearview mirror, or one of the two side view mirrors on your car. But what happens if a mirror is missing or damaged? Is it legal to drive with a missing or damaged mirror?

What the law says

First, understand that the laws in each state vary. However, most of them do require you to have at least two mirrors that provide a view behind you. This means you can legally drive your car as long as two of the three mirrors are still functional and whole. However, while it might be legal, it’s not particularly safe. This is especially true for the side view mirrors. It’s very difficult to get a good view of traffic on the passenger side of your car from the driver’s seat without a side view mirror.

You should also understand that while it’s not technically illegal to drive your car in this condition, a police officer might pull you over if he or she notices that it’s missing or damaged.

The best option

The best option is to have your mirror replaced if it’s broken or damaged. If just the mirror is damaged, it can be replaced relatively easily. If the actual mirror housing is broken on one of your side view mirrors, replacing it will take a little bit extra time (you’ll need a new housing and new glass).



The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

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Pardeep

21 years of experience

1068 reviews

Pardeep

21 years of experience

Hyundai Accent L4-1.6L - Door Mirror Replacement (Passenger Side) - Milpitas, California

Pardeep was early, and finished the mirror replacement in a little over 20 mins. He was professional, courteous, and replacing the passenger side mirror after my daughter's fender-bender was the perfect use of Pardeep's convenient house call.

Honda Accord - Door Mirror Replacement (Passenger Side) - Cupertino, California

He is a quick and experienced expert on repairing car. Hope from more his services understand him more. Thanks for his excellent work. Chung Wang

Claud

8 years of experience

475 reviews

Claud

8 years of experience

Ford Focus L4-2.0L - Door Mirror Replacement (Driver Side) - Oak Park, Michigan

Showed up on time. Friendly, fast and professional! I will definitely call and request Claud when I'm in need of a mechanic. Amazing service! Thanks Claud!

Chrysler Sebring - Door Mirror Replacement (Driver Side) - Rochester, Michigan

He was early, which was nice, and he was able to reuse the painted part of my mirror that wasn't damaged. I am very happy with the results! 

Jose

12 years of experience

49 reviews

Jose

12 years of experience

Cadillac Escalade ESV V8-6.2L - Door Mirror Replacement (Driver Side) - Lake Elsinore, California

Oh while I was late for the appointment unfortunately I was there was a gentleman and waited without any negativity he just got to work and knocked out the job quickly ! Are usually don’t leave reviews because I’m busy but I have to take my time out for this one good job guys thank you very much.

Attila

19 years of experience

906 reviews

Attila

19 years of experience

Ford Fusion V6-3.0L - Door Mirror Replacement (Passenger Side) - Clifton, New Jersey

Attilas was great. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Also advised me on other issues that the car would need to the near future. Very helpful.

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Can I drive my car with a broken side mirror?

Cops May Pull You Over With a Broken Mirror It may not be illegal to drive with one broken side mirror. The law states that you need to have at least two fully intact mirrors that allow you to see objects behind you. One broken mirror may not be illegal, but cops could still pull you over.

What do I do if my side mirror breaks?

If your entire side mirror or the glass has been damaged, as in both the glass and the protective covering, it is imperative that you schedule a replacement right away. If possible, do not drive your vehicle until the damage has been repaired – if you must drive, take extreme precautions.

Do you need side mirrors in Iowa?

1. Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix side mirror of car?

It will usually cost between $150 and $350 to replace a car side mirror. This price includes both the parts and the labor charges; if you choose to purchase the mirror alone and replace it yourself, the price will generally be between $35 and $90, depending on the make and model of your car.