Can you be given a ticket in NY for having a cracked windshield if the drivers vision is not impaired or distorted? My windshield is cracked on the passenger side but in no way impairs or distorts my vision or for that matter the vision of a passenger who might be riding in the vehicle with me.

The New York vehicle code section 375 (22) states that it shall be unlawful to operate a motor vehicle upon the public highways of this state which is equipped with any glass which is so broken, fractured or discolored as to distort visibility.

So in NYS a vehicle may not be driven on the roadway with glass that is broken, fractured or discolored so the drivers' visibility is obstructed. Thus it sounds as if it would be up to the discretion of the law enforcement officer that sees your cracked windshield to decide if a citation would be given for defective equipment however if your view as the driver is not impaired it is doubtful that you could be ticketed.

To be sure that police will not cite you for your cracked windshield you may want to stop by a police station and speak to a law enforcement officer about how they enforce the NYS laws regarding the condition of the windshield. The NYS DMV may also be able to give you addition information on if the condition of your windshield is okay or not according to state laws.

[Let CarInsurance.com help you find affordable auto insurance now.]

If you find that you could be cited, the crack gets worse or just decide you want the windshield to be replaced due to its condition then you should be able to place a claim through your comprehensive coverage of your auto insurance policy. The deductible associated with this type of coverage will be due to get the windshield repaired or replaced.