Hanging car air fresheners are small devices that hang from the rearview mirror in a vehicle and give off a pleasant scent. They come in many different shapes, sizes, and scents, and are widely available for purchase online or in auto supply stores.
However, in the UK, if you are pulled over by police for a traffic violation or a check stop, having car air fresheners hanging from your rearview mirror could result in a fine of up to £1,000 or 3 points on your license if they believe it is obstructing your view as a driver. However, it is unlikely that you will be fined for this infraction.
Are Hanging Air Fresheners illegal in the UK?
It’s not that hanging card air fresheners are illegal to use in a vehicle in the UK, the issue is more about whether you have an impeded view when driving on the road and if that could cause a safety issue for yourself or other road users.
Try to avoid adding bulky items to your rearview mirror such as jewelry, tassels, or pictures as they could prove distracting, obstruct your view, or result in a fine of up to £1,000 or 3 points on your UK driving license. This way you can make things easier for yourself. But you can also save a significant amount of money by not having to pay a fine.
Hanging a car air freshener that obstructs your windshield can also get you a fine ranging from $80 to $110 in Canada. In the USA, the law varies from state to state. However, in
- Minnesota,
- California
- Illinois
- Pennsylvania
- Arizona
- and Texas,
you can be pulled over and fined for hanging an item from your rearview mirror. Other USA state laws specify that a fine can be issued if the object obstructs the driver’s view as it can lead to accidents and road collisions. Keep your car road legal to ensure you stay safe on the roads.
What are alternatives to Hanging Air Fresheners?
There is a wide range of car air fresheners available on the market. Make sure you choose a trusted brand to ensure you’re buying a safe and long-lasting air freshener product. Electric car diffusers are a popular alternative to using a hanging air freshener in your car. Available with a range of scent options and easily refilled, electric car diffusers offer a consistent and discreet way to keep your car fresh. You can place a car diffuser in a cup holder or on the dashboard as long as it doesn’t obstruct your view.
Car mist sprays are another alternative for keeping your car smelling good. Car mist sprays are easy to use, simply spray a few spritzes of the mist and let it sit for a few minutes before driving away.
Essentially, as there are so many different types of car air fresheners, it is important to make sure your hanging air freshener in your car does not obstruct your view when driving. Alternatively, use an electric car diffuser or car mist spray to keep your car smelling fresh.
