Unusual Car Laws

There are several nuances in the automotive industry that the average consumer will almost never come across. One of these is an incongruity between local and state laws concerning car specifications and the kinds of cars that are produced each year. While automotive manufacturers put out several models with standard spoilers, flaps, or particular types of lights, state and local laws may actually prohibit these additions. While consumers are rarely ticketed outright for these violations, a law enforcement officer may attach a second ticket onto a preexisting violation, such as speeding or driving recklessly.
One of the most common violations that can spring from manufacturers not adhering to individual state or local laws are spoiler types. While most consumers do not think twice about their vehicle if it has not been modified with after-market parts, the reality is that there are a handful of popular models that technically sport illegal spoilers. For example, citations have been handed out in Maryland for a spoiler on a Subaru model known as the WRX STi. Similar cases have been cited for Mitsubishi EVO models with factory-specified spoilers.
Other problems can arise when manufacturers allow particular sports packages or couple with partners that may usually work in the after-market sector of the automotive industry. In these situations, special additions may be legal in the state where they are sold, but not across the country. This has become especially true in cases involving modification packages that affect fuel economy or emissions. Emission standards and regulations are important for any car enthusiast to remember.
While not symptomatic of all sports car drivers, or even most of them, public perception holds that these drivers will use their faster cars recklessly on the highway. While this is often a false assumption, there are penalties for those who do abuse the power of their vehicles. To learn more about what the legal system can do to protect those injured in automobile accidents, contact a car accident lawyer.