Another accessory under fire: Reflective window coverings now in police crosshairs

The North Queensland Highway Patrol is warning 4WD owners that an increasingly popular 4×4 accessory is illegal on public roads, with reflective window coverings firmly in their sights.

“North Brisbane Highway Patrol would like to warn motorists about a growing trend among four-wheel drive (4WD) owners which is illegal and a danger to other road users,” the statement reads. “There has been an increased popularity of 4WD vehicle having reflective window coverings which comes with a hefty fine.”

At the centre of the crackdown is a broad road rule. Under Section 297(2) of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management – Road Rules) Regulation 2009, a driver must not operate a vehicle unless they have a clear view of the road and traffic ahead, behind and to both sides.

1

“Not complying with this road rule attracts a $389 fine and risks the safety of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and bicycle or scooter riders by drastically reducing vision,” the North Queensland Highway Patrol adds.

Reflective window coverings, along with mirror-style dash mats, significantly reduce visibility in certain light conditions, particularly early mornings, late afternoons and at night. Police also remind owners that no reflective material can be displayed on a vehicle at all, even if it’s marketed as a heat or glare reducer. Any breach can result in a defect notice, making the vehicle unroadworthy.

Tinted windscreens are another modification drawing attention. While side and rear window tint is legal within limits, any tint on the windscreen itself is illegal.

1

For many 4WD owners, confusion may come from the blanket nature of the rule. Accessories are often sold openly as touring or comfort upgrades, and some don’t obviously block vision in everyday driving. However, the legislation doesn’t assess intent or appearance. If a fitting restricts visibility or uses reflective material, it fails the rule regardless of how minor it may seem.

“Don’t risk a fine or the safety of other road users, check your vehicle is compliant before you hit the road,” the statement says.

Last year, at the Australian 4WD and Adventure Show in Perth, police sparked outrage from the 4WD community after 11 vehicles were issued defect notices while parked at the event. The action was seen by many enthusiasts as a targeted enforcement rather than random checks, and it led to concerns about the increasing scrutiny of 4×4 modifications at public gatherings.