Can a driver be pulled over in North Carolina for an item on a rearview mirror? Here’s the law

Several states have laws restricting hanging items from rearview mirrors.Photo byMotorBiscuit

It’s pretty common for drivers to hang items from their rearview mirrors, but could it get you in trouble with the law?

Traffic laws vary across the country, and in some states, there are strict rules about objects hanging from rear view mirrors and windshields.

The legalities of items on rearview mirrors differ across the country, but what are the rules in North Carolina? Can you get pulled over by police for having a hanging air freshener, key chain or face mask?

Here’s what to know about the state laws regarding rear view mirrors:

North Carolina Laws on Rearview Mirrors

• Requirement: State law mandates that all vehicles must have an inside rearview mirror that provides a clear, undistorted, and reasonably unobstructed view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.

Objects Hanging from Rearview Mirrors

• No Explicit Ban: North Carolina law does not specifically prohibit hanging items like air fresheners, key chains, or face masks from rearview mirrors.
• Obstruction of View: If an object hanging from the mirror obstructs your view, an officer can pull you over. The law states that the rearview mirror must provide a clear and reasonably unobstructed view, and this is subject to officer discretion.

Safety Concerns

Officers emphasize the importance of having an unobstructed view to ensure you are aware of your surroundings and can see what’s coming up behind you, which is crucial for safe driving.