- February 12, 2025
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Robert Baumer, of Ormond Beach, was happy to announce recently that the city is taking steps on a problem he’s been looking into for more than a year: illegally tinted windows in cars.
Baumer is a regular motorcycle rider. If he is sitting at an intersection, he can’t see if the driver of another car is distracted by a cell phone or other device, he said. Also, he can’t see the driver’s face to gauge his intention, to see if his right of way might be violated.
“My personal safety is affected when I can’t see into a car,” he said.
Having windows too dark is a primary offense, meaning that drivers can be pulled over for the infraction. Baumer made a freedom of information act request and found that out that 16 tickets were give out for dark window in 2015 in Ormond Beach and there were 47 written warnings. He believes there should be more tickets.
Ormond Beach Police Chief Jesse Godfrey said officers have discretion as to whether to issue a ticket, written warning or verbal warning. He did not have a comment on the numbers supplied by Baumer.
Police use a hand-held device to measure the window tint.
In a recent meeting with Baumer, Godfrey and City Manager Joyce Shanahan agreed to advertise the tinting law to the public, and also have a Free Window Tint Screenings event.
From 3 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 24, the public can have the tint on their windows checked in the front parking lot of the Ormond Beach Police Dept., 170 W. Granada Blvd.
“We want to heighten the awareness,” Shanahan said.
The tinting problem comes from “after-market” products. Professional tint installers can be charged if found to be violating the law.
Baumer also asked for a commitment to increase enforcement, but Godfrey said they should begin with “baby steps,” and see how the event goes before considering more enforcement.
Baumer now says he has gone from complaining to cooperating.
“I believe something good will come out of this,” he said.
Information on the tinting law, including requirements, can be found on the flyer announcing the city event. Visit ormondbeach.org, click on “News and Announcements” and then “Free Vehicle Window Tint Screenings.”
The American Automobile Association agrees with Baumer.
“Dark windows can make it difficult for other road users to see a driver’s face for non-verbal communication and cues,” said spokeswoman Karen Morgan in an email. “Dark windows increase risks for police officers when they cannot see clearly into vehicles during traffic stops.”
She also said studies show very dark window tints can reduce driver visibility, especially at night and for older drivers or drivers with glasses.
