All it takes is one errant sideswipe for your mirror to break, a tragically common occurrence in parking lots everywhere. Protruding from your vehicle on either side, your mirrors are highly susceptible to damage from shopping carts and other cars. Before you get behind the wheel, here’s what you need to know about broken or damaged car mirrors.

What Are the Rules About Driving With a Broken Mirror?

Different states have different laws regarding broken or damaged mirrors. In some states, it’s legal to drive if one of your side mirrors is broken as long as you have at least two functioning mirrors. In New York, the laws dictate that you must have at least two undamaged mirrors if your car was manufactured after 1970. Cars made before 1967 must have at least one functioning rearview mirror, but after 1968 they need to have both a rearview mirror and a left outside mirror. If any of the required mirrors are broken or damaged, you run the risk of getting pulled over. 

What Should You Do When You Have a Broken Car Mirror?

Driving around with a damaged mirror can get you a hefty fine — a broken or obstructed mirror due to damage counts as an “obstructed view” violation. A first-time offense will cost you up to $150 before surcharges, and add 2 points to your license. These fines get more costly for each subsequent ticket, so save yourself the stress and the expense and get your mirror fixed as soon as possible. 

Though in some cases it’s possible to fix a broken mirror, unless you’re a trained at working with glass, it’s best to let the professionals handle it. A quick patch-up job will not work here. If you want it done right, take your vehicle to a shop that specializes in glass and mirrors. 

Don’t risk the fine from a broken mirror; have it replaced by the glass experts at Rochester Auto Glass & Mirror Co., in Monroe County, NY. For over 35 years they’ve been replacing glass in everything from mirrors to tabletops. They understand that it’s the details that matter, and they strive for nothing short of excellence in every job they do. Visit them online to learn more about their professional glass services or call them today at (585) 454-1850.