Can I legally drive with a broken side mirror?
Generally, no—most places require a functioning side mirror, and a broken or missing mirror can be illegal or lead to penalties. If you must travel to a repair, do so cautiously and be aware that enforcement varies by location.
Regional variations in the law
Laws cover side mirrors differently around the world. The following overview highlights common expectations, but rules can change and vary by state, province, or country. Always check with your local transportation authority for the exact requirement where you drive.
- United States: Most states require at least one functional driver’s-side exterior mirror; many also require a passenger-side mirror. A broken or missing mirror can be treated as a safety defect and may result in a traffic stop, ticket, or inspection failure in some jurisdictions.
- Canada: Provinces generally mandate functioning exterior mirrors; enforcement and inspection standards vary by province, with defects often noted during roadside stops or safety checks.
- United Kingdom: The UK requires functioning exterior mirrors (and an interior rear-view mirror). A broken mirror can render a vehicle unroadworthy and may fail a MOT or draw police attention, depending on severity and visibility concerns.
- European Union: EU-wide regulations typically expect usable exterior mirrors; if a mirror is damaged, the vehicle may not meet roadworthiness standards until repaired.
- Australia and New Zealand: Exterior mirrors must be in good condition and provide adequate rear visibility; a broken mirror can lead to penalties or a failed vehicle inspection depending on the jurisdiction.
- Other regions: Local rules vary. If you’re traveling, consult the relevant transport authority or police guidance for precise requirements.
Concluding: Because rules differ, verify the exact requirements in your locality and prioritize a prompt repair to stay compliant and ensure safe driving.
What to do if your mirror is broken
Practical steps to handle a broken mirror while staying within the law and maintaining safety.
- Find a safe place to pull over and, if necessary, switch on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Assess whether you can drive safely to a repair facility. If visibility is severely compromised, avoid high-speed roads and heavy traffic.
- Use a temporary safeguard (such as protective tape over sharp edges) only to prevent injury and reduce glare. Do not rely on temporary fixes as a legal substitute for a proper mirror.
- Arrange a repair or replacement as soon as possible; consider contacting roadside assistance if you cannot safely reach a repair shop.
- Keep documentation of the repair and any temporary measures, in case you are asked by law enforcement or for insurance purposes.
- Do not drive long distances or in challenging conditions (e.g., at night, in bad weather) with a broken mirror unless you have a suitable and safe temporary replacement installed.
Note: Temporary fixes do not always meet legal requirements, and some jurisdictions may require you to stop driving altogether if the mirror is severely impaired. Use temporary measures only to reach a repair safely.
Temporary fixes and limitations
Temporary solutions are for getting to a repair and are not guaranteed to satisfy roadworthiness standards. They should be used sparingly and replaced with a proper mirror as soon as possible.
Insurance and enforcement considerations
Insurance coverage and penalties can vary if a police officer determines the vehicle is unsafe. Keeping mirrors in good working order helps avoid disputes during claims and inspections.
Summary
Having a broken side mirror is typically treated as an equipment defect or safety issue in many jurisdictions. While you may be able to drive to a repair in some cases, you risk traffic stops, fines, or failed inspections in others. Always verify local rules with the relevant transport authority, prioritize a prompt repair, and drive cautiously in the meantime. A properly functioning mirror is a basic but essential safety feature for drivers and passengers alike.
Can you still drive your car if the side mirror is broken?
You can tentatively drive with a broken side mirror, but it is unsafe and may be illegal depending on your location and which mirror is broken. It is best to check your local laws, but generally, you must have at least two working rear-facing mirrors. If your driver's side mirror is broken, it is often illegal and always more dangerous because you lose your primary line of sight for passing and lane changes.
This video explains the legal requirements for mirrors in vehicles: 55sThe Windscreen CompanyYouTube · Jan 22, 2025
Safety and legal considerations
- Driver's side mirror: This is the more critical mirror. If it is broken, you should not drive. Losing this view is significantly more dangerous, and many places consider it illegal.
- Passenger side mirror: It is often still legal to drive with a broken passenger side mirror, as long as your driver's side and rearview mirrors are functional. However, this is still unsafe, especially when merging or changing lanes, and you could be pulled over for it.
- Check local laws: Mirror laws vary by state, so it's essential to check your local regulations before driving.
- Get a "fix-it" ticket: If you are pulled over, you may receive a "fix-it ticket," which allows you to get the mirror repaired within a specific timeframe to avoid a penalty.
What to do in the short term
- Make sure it's secure: If the glass is cracked but the mirror is still attached, make sure the glass is stable to prevent it from falling out. You can use tape to hold cracked glass in place.
- Improvise a replacement: As a temporary solution, you can use a universal clip-on mirror or even a securely attached bicycle mirror.
- Get a replacement: Replace the broken glass or the entire mirror assembly as soon as possible.
Can you drive with just one side mirror?
Side mirrors are only required if the view from the center mirror is obstructed. Mirrors must have a view of at least 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle. California: If the vehicle is registered in this state then left side mirror is required and either a center mirror or right side mirror.
Is it illegal to drive with a smashed side mirror?
All Mirrors Must Be Intact and Functional: This includes both external side mirrors and the rear-view mirror inside the car.
Can I get pulled over for a broken side mirror?
Police officers can pull you over if they suspect your vehicle doesn't allow the required rear-view visibility. While the law allows some flexibility in how that visibility is achieved, the absence of a side mirror, especially on the driver's side, may lead an officer to reasonably suspect a violation.
