Drivers planning a trip to Germany should check whether their car’s paint or foil is legal. Some modifications allowed in Poland can result in a hefty fine across the western border. A reflective or ultra-black finish may cost you 135 euros – about 600 zlotys.
According to Moto.pl, many car owners choose mirror-like chrome foils that make the vehicle look like polished metal. However, such surfaces can reflect sunlight so intensely that they blind other drivers.
– The effect is spectacular, but it can reflect light with such force that it blinds other road users – reported the automotive portal Moto.pl. If the authorities deem the bodywork a safety hazard, the driver faces a 135-euro fine.
German regulations also ban the use of Vantablack paint, which absorbs almost all light and makes the car nearly invisible at night, during rain or in fog. Similar restrictions apply to other ultra-black coatings like Musou Black.
Stricter rules in Germany
Germany enforces much more rigorous vehicle appearance standards than Poland. Chrome foils and extremely dark paints are explicitly prohibited because they compromise road safety. The German traffic code allows the police to stop and fine any vehicle whose color or finish is considered dangerous.
– Particularly dangerous conditions occur after dark, during rainfall, or in fog, when the vehicle can nearly blend in with the surroundings – added the Moto.pl report.
What about Poland?
In Poland, there is no direct ban on ultra-black paints such as Vantablack. However, every modification must not negatively affect road safety. If it does, the car may be questioned during a police check or a technical inspection.
Polish regulations are generally less detailed regarding vehicle color, but the principle of safety remains overriding. Drivers who install reflective foils or matte-black finishes are advised to verify compliance with European standards before traveling to Germany or other EU countries with stricter rules.
Źródło: WNP.PL (wnp.pl), Fot. Shutterstock / Gold Picture
