Does installing an external insect screen on a car count as obstructing the license plate?
3 Answers
Installing an external insect screen on a car counts as obstructing the license plate. Here is an introduction to insect screens: 1. An insect screen is a mesh fabric primarily made of polyethylene with added chemical additives such as anti-aging and UV-resistant agents. 2. It is manufactured through a drawing process, offering advantages such as high tensile strength, heat resistance, water resistance, corrosion resistance, aging resistance, being non-toxic and odorless, and easy disposal of waste. It can prevent common pests like flies and mosquitoes. 3. It is lightweight and easy to store when not in use. If made from new materials and stored properly, its lifespan can last around 3 to 5 years.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I once considered installing an external bug screen to protect the front radiator, especially since summer insects can clog the radiator. However, during one attempt, I accidentally covered the lower part of the license plate with the screen while installing it. As a result, I was pulled over by traffic police, fined 200 yuan, and had 6 points deducted from my license for intentionally obscuring the plate. That experience taught me a valuable lesson: any modification must not interfere with the full display of the license plate, even seemingly harmless additions like bug screens. Traffic regulations clearly state that license plates cannot be covered by any objects, including screens or stickers, or it will be considered illegal. My advice is to measure the license plate position carefully before making any modifications to ensure the screen is fixed in a safe area, or simply opt for an internal-style product. While bug screens have their benefits, it's not worth the risk for such minor convenience.
As someone who frequently modifies cars, I've researched various accessory installation issues. External bug screens are typically installed at the front grille area, potentially covering the license plate vicinity - that's the hidden danger. While bug screens can prevent dust and insects, improving engine performance, improper installation that causes obstruction violates traffic regulations and directly invites fines and penalty points. I've seen many cases where friends installed them, resulting in unclear license plate photos that made electronic recognition difficult, leading to subsequent troubles. The key is to prioritize avoiding the license plate outline during installation, opting for fine mesh materials or transparent designs to maintain clear visibility. Personally, I always make drafts before each modification to ensure it doesn't affect the license plate's integrity before proceeding, avoiding regrets. If bug screens aren't absolutely necessary, regular radiator cleaning might be a more hassle-free solution.
