When it comes to riding motorcycles, safety should always be the top priority. One crucial element that helps protect motorcycle riders is the visor. Smoked visors have gained popularity among riders due to their stylish and sleek appearance. However, there seems to be some confusion about their legality.
Are Smoked Visors Legal?
Understandably, motorcycle riders want to know if using smoked visors is legal. According to the law, visors or goggles worn by motorcyclists must either meet British Standards and display the BSI Kitemark or adhere to European standards offering the same level of safety and protection as the British Standard and carry a mark equivalent to the BSI Kitemark (UNECE Regulation 205).
Darkness of the Visor
During daylight hours, a tint of up to 50% is permissible according to official Government guidance. Legally tinted visors are typically marked as for daylight use only. However, it is crucial to ensure that your visor is clean and free of smudges, scratches, or marks that could affect your vision, especially in strong sunlight.
It's important to note that the enforcement of visor darkness can vary as it is mostly left up to the discretion of different police forces and individual officers. However, recent reports indicate that some police units are equipped with tint testing devices to enforce visor regulations more effectively.
Risks and Penalties
Using visors that are excessively dark, instead of mildly tinted, can lead to charges under Section 18 of the Road Traffic Act 198In addition, riding with a dark visor in fading light or even in darkness could result in charges of careless or dangerous driving. Consequences of these charges may include fines, bans, and even having to retake your driving test.
It is also essential to consider the potential impact on insurance claims, as insurance companies may significantly reduce the value of claims if a tinted visor is found to be a contributing factor in an accident.
Tips for Riding Safely with a Smoked Visor
If you plan to ride with a smoked visor, it is prudent to have a clear visor as well. This allows you to switch visors should light conditions change or in case you encounter any potential issues with law enforcement. Safety should always come first, and clear visibility is crucial for a rider to have adequate reaction time on the road.
Considerations for Night Riding
It's vital to use common sense when it comes to riding at dusk or in darkness with a dark visor. Riding in such conditions is considered an offense under Section 18 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, and it may lead to charges of dangerous driving. Andrew Dalton, a Legal Expert at Bike Magazine, warns that riding at night with a dark visor is considered extremely dangerous and can result in a mandatory one-year ban and a compulsory retest for all classes of licenses.
Riding in Hot Weather
For riders, the thrill of getting on the bike during a heatwave is unmatched. If you choose to ride with a smoked visor during hot weather, ensuring proper visibility is even more critical. Protecting yourself from excessive heat by wearing appropriate safety gear is highly recommended. Additionally, regularly checking your visor for smudges, scratches, or other impairments is essential for maintaining clear vision while riding.
When it comes to smoked visors, it is essential to understand the legal specifications and guidelines set by the authorities. Always ensure that your visor meets the required standards and choose your visor darkness wisely. Most importantly, prioritize safety while riding by ensuring clear visibility, especially during changing light conditions. By being aware of the regulations and following some common-sense guidelines, you can enjoy the overall riding experience while staying safe.
If you want to know other articles similar to Smoked visors: legality, usage, and safety guidelines you can visit the Visor regulations category.