Can you drive with a broken tail light cover?

Having a broken tail light cover is a common issue that many drivers face at some point. While it may seem like a minor problem, a broken tail light cover can still get you pulled over and ticketed. So what exactly are the rules and requirements when it comes to driving with a cracked or broken tail light cover? Here is a comprehensive look at what you need to know.

Is it illegal to drive with a broken tail light cover?

In most states, it is illegal to drive with a broken or non-working tail light cover. Technically, driving with a broken tail light cover would be considered a fix-it ticket type of offense. The reason it is illegal is because a broken tail light cover can allow moisture or dirt inside the housing, causing the bulb itself to eventually burn out and no longer illuminate. So while you may still have a working tail light currently, a broken cover means it likely won’t work for very long.

Additionally, most vehicle and traffic codes require that vehicles have proper rear lighting so other drivers can see your vehicle and brake lights from behind. A damaged or obscured tail light cover may prevent your tail lights from being visible or apparent to other drivers, especially in low light conditions. For these reasons, law enforcement will often pull drivers over and issue a “fix-it ticket” for a broken tail light cover, meaning you will have to get it repaired in order to avoid paying a fine.

Can you get a ticket for a broken tail light cover?

Yes, you can definitely get a ticket for driving with a cracked or broken tail light cover. As mentioned, it is considered an equipment violation in most states. While you may not get ticketed every single time you are pulled over, the broken tail light cover gives the officer reason to pull you over to begin with. At that point, it is up to the officer’s discretion whether or not to write you a ticket or just give you a warning and tell you to get it fixed.

Some factors that may influence whether you get a ticket or not include:

  • The severity of the damage – If the cover is fully missing or so damaged that the light is obscured, you are more likely to be ticketed
  • Night vs. day – Driving at night with a broken cover makes you more likely to get a ticket since the issue is harder to see in the daytime
  • Overall condition of your vehicle – If your car has multiple visible issues, broken parts, or equipment violations, officers will be more inclined to ticket you for the tail light as well
  • Attitude and history – Officers take your behavior and response into account. Polite drivers with clean records may get leniency.
  • Individual officer discretion – Some officers strictly enforce any and all violations, while others are more laid back.

So while it is not guaranteed that a broken tail light cover will result in a fine every time, you are taking the chance of getting ticketed and having to pay $50-$200+ depending on your state’s laws. The ticket amount is usually minor, but getting pulled over and ticketed can still be an inconvenience and take up time for both you and law enforcement.

Will a “fix-it ticket” affect insurance rates?

In most cases, a minor fix-it ticket for a broken tail light cover will not affect your auto insurance rates. Insurance rate hikes are more commonly triggered by moving violations like speeding, reckless driving, DUIs, and accidents. However, there are a few caveats to consider:

  • If the fix-it ticket is not resolved in a timely manner and the violation remains on your record, insurers may view it less favorably
  • Receiving multiple fix-it tickets can signal neglecting vehicle maintenance, raising potential risk
  • Too many tickets of any kind within a short timeframe may still influence insurance rates even if minor
  • Some states allow insurers more discretion on raising rates for minor violations

To avoid any insurance impacts, the best bet is to resolve the fix-it ticket promptly by replacing the broken tail light cover and sending proof to the court. Overall, a single isolated incident of a cracked lens typically has very little effect on your insurance premium.

Is it illegal to cover a broken tail light with tape?

Simply taping over a broken tail light cover is usually not sufficient in the eyes of the law. In most states, it is illegal to cover or obstruct any exterior lights with tape, paint, or other materials. Even though taping a cracked lens may make the light appear intact, it often obscures light output and is not considered an acceptable or safe way to address the issue.

Law enforcement officers can still issue a fix-it ticket for a tail light covered in tape. Duct tape, electrical tape, packing tape, and similar materials are translucent rather than fully clear and prevent the optimal visibility of brake lights to other motorists. So you could still get pulled over and cited for improper equipment, being required to fully replace the broken lens cover.

Can you get pulled over for a cracked tail light?

Yes, having a visibly cracked or damaged tail light lens is enough justification for getting pulled over in most states. While some officers may let you off with just a warning, the cracked lens gives them probable cause to initiate a traffic stop and inspect your vehicle more closely.

Factors that can make getting pulled over more likely with a cracked tail light include:

  • Extent of damage – Large cracks, missing sections of the lens or heavy damage are more likely to warrant a stop.
  • Nighttime driving – Harder for police to see damage during the day, easier at night when light is on.
  • Multiple issues – A damaged tail light in conjunction with expired tags, noisy muffler, etc makes a stop more likely.
  • Routine check – Officers may randomly check for equipment issues like tail lights during routine traffic patrols.

So while a slightly cracked corner or small surface chip may not be cause for concern in some instances, any visible damage can potentially result in getting pulled over at the officer’s discretion. Only fully intact and functional tail lights are guaranteed not to raise any red flags.

How much are fix-it tickets for a broken tail light?

Tail light fix-it ticket costs can vary depending on your state and local jurisdiction’s fines and fees. Here are some examples of what a fix-it ticket may cost for a cracked or broken tail light cover in different areas:

State Typical Tail Light Fix-It Ticket Fine
California $25
Colorado $65
Florida $30
Georgia $75
Illinois $50-$150
Kansas $60
Michigan $15
New York $65-$150
Oregon $110-$220
Texas $10-$200

On top of the base fine amount, you will also be responsible for any applicable court costs and processing fees. There may be additional charges if you miss your court date or fail to resolve the fix-it ticket promptly. Overall costs can range from around $25 up to $200+ in some cases.

How to fix a broken tail light cover?

There are a few different options for how to go about fixing a broken or cracked tail light cover. Here are some potential ways to repair it:

Replace the entire tail light assembly

For extensive damage or older/cloudy lenses, replacing the entire tail light assembly can be the best option. Complete tail light assemblies with new integrated lenses are readily available online or at auto parts stores. Replacing the whole unit ensures clean, crack-free, like-new condition.

Replace just the lens cover

If the tail light housing itself is still intact, you may be able to just swap out the damaged lens cover portion. Look up your vehicle make, model, and year online to find the correct replacement cover or call a dealership parts department. Installing just a new lens is cheaper than a whole unit.

Use tail light repair tape

Specialized tail light tapes can provide a temporary fix by sealing cracks and holding broken pieces in place. The tape is formulated with a clear adhesive that allows light to shine through unobstructed. This can buy you some time before fully replacing the lens or assembly.

Use clear epoxy adhesive

Applying a thin layer of transparent epoxy or plastic adhesive can also mend cracks and cracks. Once dry, it will seamlessly blend in like the original lens. This is not a perfect permanent fix but can restore integrity enough to pass inspection.

Regardless of the repair method used, be sure to thoroughly clean the lens area first for the best bonding results. Carefully following the directions of whichever product you choose is also important. Avoid using household tapes or glues which could further obscure light output.

Can you pass inspection with a cracked tail light?

In most states with annual vehicle safety and emissions inspection programs, you will not pass inspection if your tail lights are damaged. Cracked, broken, or missing tail light covers will result in an inspection failure. The vehicle will need to be repaired and brought back for re-inspection before getting approved registration renewal.

Some specific inspection criteria related to tail lights includes:

  • Lights must be intact and working properly
  • Housing, lenses, and reflectors must be secure with no damage
  • Lenses cannot be obstructed by any tint, tape, or other coverings
  • No moisture, debris, or leaks inside the housing
  • Correct OEM-equivalent replacement covers and assemblies

So any visible cracks, damage, moisture leaks, or improvised tape jobs will lead to automatic inspection failure. The tail light must be fully functional and undamaged to pass. Some states may fail inspection if the tail light area is excessively dirty as well, obstructing light visibility.

Will a tail light “passed” sticker help?

Some repair shops will inspect your tail lights for damage and apply a sticker showing they are functional if no issues are found. This is intended to provide proof that the lights passed a voluntary inspection, with the hope that officers will see the sticker and have less reason to pull you over.

However, these stickers are not an official indication that your tail lights passed a state inspection. Police officers have no obligation to accept them as proof of functionality. The stickers are not a guarantee against getting a ticket. Only confirmed repairs and legal compliance will fully resolve the issue.

Is it safe to drive with a cracked tail light?

It is generally not considered safe to drive with a cracked or damaged tail light cover. Here are some key risks:

  • Reduced illumination – Cracks and damage can obstruct light output
  • Water intrusion – Openings in the lens allow moisture inside the housing
  • Further damage – Additional cracking and wear-and-tear over time
  • Burnt-out bulb – Heat and moisture eventually damage the bulb
  • Crash risk – Other drivers may not see brake light signals properly

All of these factors mean driving with a broken tail light cover poses safety risks not just for you, but for other motorists who need to see your brake lights clearly. It is best to repair the issue right away to restore your tail lights to optimal visibility and function.

Is it safe in the short-term?

Driving a short distance home from a trip or to a repair shop after discovering a broken tail light is generally low risk in the short term. You are unlikely to get in a crash just going a couple of miles with minor damage. However, it is still technically illegal and the potential for getting pulled over exists.

Only driving during daytime hours makes it marginally safer, since the damage will not likely affect light visibility much. At night, even short drives with a non-illuminated or obscured tail light could be hazardous. If you must drive a damaged vehicle, keep trips very short and only during the day until repairs are made.

How can you prevent tail light damage?

Here are some tips to help prevent cracked and broken tail light lenses in the first place:

  • Avoid backing into things – Rear impacts from parking cause the most damage.
  • Purchase protective covers – Clear covers help shield the lenses from minor bumps and debris.
  • Address condensation – Condensation inside the lens leads to cracking. Replace old lamp seals or assemblies.
  • Install quality parts – Cheap replacements wear out and degrade faster than OEM-quality.
  • Regularly check lights – Catch problems early before extensive damage occurs.
  • Careful loading – Prevent heavy objects from bumping the tail lights.

Being proactive with minor maintenance, protective measures, and careful driving habits can help minimize the chances of sustaining tail light damage in daily use.

Conclusion

Driving with a broken or cracked tail light cover is illegal in most states and likely to eventually lead to a “fix-it ticket” requiring timely repairs. While the fine amounts are generally minor, it is still an inconvenience plus poses safety risks. Repairing the damage right away is the smartest option to avoid fines and ensure the maximum visibility of your tail lights for other drivers. With simple maintenance and replacements when needed, you can keep your tail lights in proper working order and prevent issues stemming from damaged lenses.