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Window Tint Laws and What They Mean for Public Safety

Robert Stahle • December 3, 2018
owi charges - Sioux City, IA - Criminal Defense Attorneys

In this region of the country, we’re all pretty well acquainted with the merciless glare of a bright, blazing sun. While we’re fortunate enough to live in an area where excessive cloud cover isn’t much of an issue, the bright, clear skies can present some unique challenges, especially when driving.

As a solution, some people choose to have their car windows tinted, both to reduce the amount of light coming into their vehicles and to provide more privacy to the passengers. While window tinting is effective and looks nice, dark tinting can also cause some safety issues. For this reason, most states have laws that specifically address window tinting and what’s legally acceptable.

State Laws on Automotive Window Tinting


Automotive window tinting laws very drastically by state, and it’s important to understand the laws of the state you currently live in along with the ones your frequently travel through. While it might be difficult to find a tinting service that will violate your state’s laws, it’s entirely possible to have your windows tinted in another state with different regulations and then receive a ticket in the state you currently reside in or are traveling through.

To give an example of the variety of acceptable tint range, Iowa window tint laws state that front side windows must allow at least 70% of light in, with no tint restrictions for rear windows. Meanwhile, Nebraska window tint laws state that only a minimum of 35% light must be let in on front side windows, with no restrictions for rear windows. Considering that many people regularly commute to and from Nebraska and Iowa, this can present a legal issue for some drivers.


Tinted Windows and Safety Concerns

From a legal standpoint, there are several concerns with applying a dark tint to automotive windows. First, although a rare occurrence, there is the possibility that front passengers could be engaging in illegal activity. What’s more of a concern for law enforcement is that a dark tint limits their ability to see into a vehicle when approaching it and effectively assess the situation and risks.

There is also some concern about whether or not darkly tinted windows can pose a safety risk on the road by potentially diminishing the driver’s visibility, especially at night. For owners of vehicles with windows that are tinted to the legal maximum, it’s important to consider a few basic safety precautions.

For example, if your windows are tinted, especially in Nebraska where a darker tint is legally allowed, it’s advised to refrain from wearing sunglasses while driving if there’s a chance the extra shading will interfere with your visibility.

Likewise, if your side windows are darkly tinted, take care in being extra aware of pedestrians and oncoming traffic that might not yet have their lights on at dusk. If in the event you are pulled over for any reason, lower all the windows and turn on your interior lights so that law enforcement has a clear view of you and the interior of your vehicle.

When an Accident Occurs

If you have been involved in an auto accident and feel that illegally tinted windows may have been at least partially to blame, the first thing you should do after receiving medical attention is to contact a car accident lawyer who is experienced in personal injury claims. If you need legal advice or representation, we’re here to help. Contact Fitch & Stahle Law Office today.

Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable in Civil Court: What Victims Should Know

By Robert Stahle • June 18, 2025
When someone is injured by a drunk driver, the first question is often: “Will they go to jail?” Criminal charges such as DUI or OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) are often filed against the driver, especially if injuries or fatalities are involved. While this may result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time, the reality is this: a criminal case won’t pay your bills. To recover financial compensation for your injuries, you need to file a civil claim —a personal injury lawsuit. This is where true accountability happens for victims. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we help people across Iowa and Nebraska navigate the civil justice system and pursue the compensation they need after a drunk driving accident. Here’s what you should know. Civil Cases Are Separate from Criminal Trials Many victims assume that if the driver is arrested and convicted of DUI, they’ll automatically be compensated. But criminal proceedings are about the state punishing the offender—not helping the victim recover. In fact, you can file a civil lawsuit even if the driver isn’t charged or convicted. While a conviction helps prove liability in civil court, it’s not required. Your personal injury attorney will build a case based on evidence of negligence and damages—whether or not the state takes action. What Damages Can You Recover in a Civil Claim? Civil cases allow victims to recover a broad range of compensatory damages , including: Emergency medical bills Ongoing treatment and rehabilitation Lost wages and future income Pain and suffering Mental anguish Vehicle and property damage Loss of enjoyment of life In many drunk driving cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages . These are awarded to punish gross negligence—like driving with a high blood alcohol content or with prior DUI convictions. Punitive damages can dramatically increase your total compensation and serve as a warning to others. The Role of an Attorney in Building Your Case Civil lawsuits require a thorough investigation, documentation, and expert testimony. At Fitch & Stahle, we begin by collecting all the evidence: police reports, toxicology results, dashcam footage, witness statements, and medical records. If needed, we consult with accident reconstruction experts to establish what happened and why. We then calculate both economic damages (like medical bills) and non-economic damages (like emotional trauma), making sure no part of your suffering is overlooked. We also handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel. Our team is skilled in negotiation and litigation, and we’re fully prepared to take your case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered. When Third-Party Liability May Apply In some situations, additional parties may be held responsible. For example: Bars or restaurants that overserved the driver may be liable under dram shop laws Employers who allowed a known impaired driver to operate a company vehicle could also face liability We explore all angles to make sure you’re fully compensated. If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Sioux City or surrounding areas, the criminal justice system alone won’t protect your future. Let Fitch & Stahle Law Firm help you file a civil claim, recover full compensation, and hold the drunk driver—and any responsible parties—accountable. Contact us today for a free case review.

How Drunk Driving Accident Victims Can Maximize Compensation With Legal Help

By Robert Stahle • June 11, 2025
When you’re injured by a drunk driver, the physical trauma is often only the beginning. Medical appointments, hospital stays, and prescription medications can last for weeks, months, or even years. You may be unable to work. You may lose your vehicle. And the emotional toll—fear, anxiety, depression—can weigh heavily on you and your family. Unfortunately, many accident victims never receive the compensation they truly need to recover. Insurance companies are skilled at downplaying injuries, undervaluing claims, and pushing quick settlements. These early offers often only cover short-term costs—and leave victims with nothing for long-term consequences. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a personal injury attorney who understands how to fight for your full and fair compensation. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we’ve helped countless clients throughout Iowa and Nebraska recover the financial support they deserve after being hit by drunk drivers. Here’s how having legal representation can make a difference: 1. Understanding the Full Value of Your Claim A serious injury isn’t just about your ER bill. A strong legal claim must account for: Follow-up medical care, physical therapy, and surgeries Future medical treatment or long-term care Mental health services for trauma, PTSD, or anxiety Lost wages and reduced ability to earn income Property damage and vehicle replacement Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life Without legal help, you may never even know you’re entitled to compensation for these elements—let alone how to calculate their true cost. Our attorneys work closely with doctors, financial experts, and accident specialists to build a comprehensive case that reflects the full scope of your losses. 2. Pursuing Punitive Damages In Iowa and Nebraska, courts may award punitive damages in drunk driving cases. Unlike compensatory damages (which are designed to cover your losses), punitive damages are intended to punish the offender for particularly reckless or egregious behavior and deter others from doing the same. These damages can significantly increase the value of your claim—but you need an experienced attorney to prove that the driver’s actions warrant them. We know how to present evidence of impairment, prior offenses, and other aggravating factors that strengthen your case. 3. Exploring Additional Sources of Compensation Sometimes, the drunk driver’s insurance policy won’t cover the full cost of your damages. In those cases, we explore: Your own underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage Dram shop liability (if a bar, restaurant, or event overserved the driver) Third-party liability (in rare cases, the driver’s employer or vehicle owner may also share responsibility)  Our team works to leave no stone unturned when identifying all potential sources of recovery. 4. Standing Up to the Insurance Companies Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators. Their job is to pay out as little as possible. Without a lawyer, they may take advantage of your lack of legal knowledge or pressure you into a fast settlement. With Fitch & Stahle in your corner, you don’t have to deal with their tactics. We handle all communication, submit all documentation, and push aggressively for the settlement you deserve. And if the insurance company won’t cooperate? We’re ready to take your case to court. If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver in Iowa or Nebraska, don’t let the insurance company decide what your recovery is worth. Contact Fitch & Stahle Law Firm today for a free case evaluation. Let us help you move forward—with the compensation and justice you deserve.
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