POLICE are hoping drivers will heed their warning against using excessively tinted windows.

While many modern cars have their windows partially tinted by the manufacturer, Northumbria Police are concerned about the numerous DIY kits which are available, making the windows illegal.

As a result, the police motor patrols section has obtained a tintmeter, which can measure the amount of light coming through a car window to check if it meets legal requirements.

Inspector Bill Went said: "Anything that restricts the vision while driving is dangerous.

"The law states that there must be 70 per cent of light coming through the side windows and 75 per cent through the front windscreen.

"Although manufacturers may fit tinted glass, anything extra may well be illegal, although this doesn't apply to windows behind the driver.

"Tinted glass may seem a good idea for security reasons and for cutting the sun's glare, but a clear view is essential at all times for every motorist and the safety of pedestrians."

Insp Went said that having illegally dark glass could lead to a serious crash, as well as the motorist being fined and having three points imposed on their licence.

He said: "We hope drivers will get the message to remove excessive tinting before they are stopped by the police."