Should Car Dashboards Be Kept Free of Decorations?

Many drivers enjoy decorating their car dashboards with various items such as air fresheners, essential oils, flags, Feng Shui items, Buddha statues, and statues of gods. While this practice adds a personal touch to their vehicles, it is essential to be mindful of potential distractions and safety hazards. These decorations can obstruct the driver's view or interfere with the deployment of airbags in the event of an accident. It is crucial to strike a balance between personal expression and road safety.

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“Should Decorative Items Be Banned From Car Dashboards?”

There are currently no regulations in Vietnam prohibiting the placement of decorative items on car dashboards, so doing so is not considered a violation.

However, in some countries, this act is punishable by law. The reason being that obstructing a driver’s view with decorations can lead to accidents. Thus, if an accident occurs and there are decorative items blocking the driver’s view, you may still be fined even if you are not at fault.

For instance, in the UK, if caught with dashboard decorations or even stickers on your windshield, you’ll be slapped with a £100 fine (approximately 3 million VND) and 3 penalty points on your license. Failing to pay the fine and taking it to court could result in an increased fine of up to £1000 (around 30 million VND).


Many argue that regulations should be put in place to ban decorative items on car dashboards to ensure safety on the roads. (Illustrative image)

Vietnamese road safety experts also advise against placing objects or even tape and stickers on car dashboards. These items, whether made of plastic, wood, or other materials, if not securely fastened, can become projectiles in the event of sudden braking or an accident, posing a danger to the vehicle’s occupants.

Additionally, cute little trinkets placed on the dashboard can obstruct the driver’s view, and sticking things to the dashboard can interfere with the proper deployment of the front airbags, or even prevent them from activating in the event of a collision.

Furthermore, placing entertainment screens on the dashboard near the driver’s seat can distract the driver, impacting their ability to make judgments and react to unexpected situations on the road.

Hence, there are calls for regulations to ban decorative items from car dashboards to ensure safer roads for all.

What are your thoughts? Should decorative items be banned from car dashboards?

According to VTC News

Frequently asked questions

Yes, it is generally recommended to keep your dashboard clear of any items that may obstruct your view or cause a distraction while driving. This includes personal decorations and items such as family photos, air fresheners, fuzzy dice, and phone mounts. While it may be tempting to personalize your car space, it is important to prioritize safety first.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, items such as GPS devices and toll road transponders are exempt as they are designed to be placed on the dashboard and do not obstruct the driver’s view. Additionally, certain states may have specific laws regarding what can and cannot be displayed on a car dashboard, so it is important to check your local regulations.

A clear dashboard improves visibility and reduces distractions, leading to safer driving. Obstructing the view through the windshield or side windows can hinder your ability to see potential hazards, pedestrians, or approaching vehicles. Additionally, in the event of an accident, loose items on the dashboard can become dangerous projectiles.

If you wish to add a personal touch to your car, consider using window clings or stickers that can be placed on the rear windshield or side windows. You can also opt for seat covers, floor mats, or steering wheel covers that reflect your style. Just ensure that any additions do not impede your ability to safely operate the vehicle.

Common items found on dashboards that are best removed include personal photos, stuffed animals, hanging ornaments, and an excessive number of air fresheners. While these items may bring joy or a sense of comfort, they can become a safety hazard. It is best to keep your dashboard clear and clutter-free.
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