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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.

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.

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Drunk Driving Accident in Iowa or Nebraska

By Robert Stahle • June 6, 2025
Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating types of crashes—and the most preventable. Every time someone chooses to drive under the influence of alcohol, they not only break the law, but they also endanger innocent lives. When you’re the victim of one of these reckless acts, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be overwhelming. Many accident victims assume that if the other driver was arrested for DUI, the case will resolve itself quickly and fairly. After all, if the police have proof that the driver was drunk, what else is there to fight about? The reality is far more complex. Even when intoxication is clear, recovering compensation is rarely straightforward. Insurance companies are primarily concerned with protecting their bottom line. They may admit the drunk driver was at fault but still dispute the amount of damages you’re owed. They may claim your injuries aren’t as severe as you say or argue that you had pre-existing conditions. In some cases, they may even try to shift partial blame to you. That’s why hiring an experienced drunk driving accident attorney is so critical. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we represent clients throughout Iowa and Nebraska who have been harmed by drunk drivers. Our attorneys know how to build strong legal cases backed by evidence, expert testimony, and strategic negotiation. We don’t just take the word of the insurance company—we conduct our own investigations, obtain police and toxicology reports, interview witnesses, and, when necessary, work with accident reconstruction professionals to determine exactly what happened and who’s responsible. Beyond proving liability, our goal is to make sure every client receives the full amount of compensation they’re entitled to under the law. That includes not only current medical expenses and lost wages but also: Future medical care (surgeries, rehab, medications) Lost future earning capacity Pain and suffering Mental and emotional trauma Property damage Punitive damages when applicable In particularly egregious cases, we may also pursue compensation from third parties under Iowa or Nebraska’s dram shop liability laws . If a bar, restaurant, or even a private event served alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated or underage, that establishment could be held partially liable for the damages. Dealing with injuries, doctors, bills, and the trauma of the crash is hard enough. You shouldn’t also have to navigate legal paperwork, deadlines, and difficult insurance adjusters on your own. We provide personal, compassionate, and aggressive legal representation—so you can focus on healing while we focus on justice. Remember: The other driver’s arrest or conviction does not guarantee you fair compensation. Civil and criminal cases are separate, and only a personal injury claim will secure the financial support you need to recover and rebuild your life. If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver in Sioux City or the surrounding areas of Iowa and Nebraska, don’t wait. Call Fitch & Stahle Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll help you hold the drunk driver—and their insurance company—fully accountable.
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