Okinawa Prefectural Police crack down on traffic violations

Published Oct. 8, 2014
By Senior Airman Marcus Morris
18th Wing Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Okinawa Prefectural Police are issuing tickets to vehicle operators who have curtains, sunshades, towels, clothes, etc; covering or blocking front seat windows or front windshield of vehicles while the vehicle is running.

Not complying with this guideline is a violation of Road Traffic Act Article 55-2 because it obstructs the driver's visibility. Furthermore, the fine for large and medium size vehicles is 7000 yen and the fine for standard vehicles is 6000 yen. This will also add one point to a driver's license.

"This act applies to front seat windows only," said Lt. Col. Kathy Jordan, 18th Security Forces Squadron commander. "Window tint is authorized on front seat windows only if it is factory installed tint."

Back seat windows are exempt; however, driving without clear visibility is unsafe and could cause unexpected accidents.

Keep the visibility clear and drive safely.