License plate covers, while often used for personalization, are restricted or outright banned in many states and provinces.
According to Medium this is primarily due to the need for law enforcement to identify vehicles quickly and accurately. Obscured plates can make it difficult to:
Respond to Emergencies
Police officers and first responders rely on clear license plates to identify stolen vehicles, locate missing persons, and track down suspects. A covered plate can hinder their ability to react swiftly in critical situations.
Enforce Traffic Laws
Automated speed cameras and red light cameras use license plate recognition technology to identify violators. Obstructed plates can render these systems ineffective, leading to potential safety hazards and difficulties in enforcing traffic regulations.
Investigate Crimes
License plates play a crucial role in criminal investigations. Clear visibility of plate information allows law enforcement to track down vehicles involved in crimes, gather evidence, and apprehend criminals.
Beyond Law Enforcement
License plate visibility is also crucial for several other reasons:
Toll Collection
Electronic toll booths rely on license plate recognition to collect tolls automatically. Covered plates can disrupt this process, leading to missed tolls and unnecessary fines for car owners.
Parking Enforcement
Parking authorities use license plates to identify vehicles parked illegally. Obscured plates can make it difficult for them to enforce parking regulations and manage designated parking areas.
Private Investigations
Insurance companies and private investigators sometimes use license plate information to track down vehicles or investigate insurance claims. Covered plates can hinder their efforts and complicate legal proceedings.
