There are a few things motorists in Saskatchewan should be aware of when it comes to tinted windows on vehicles, SGI says.

"In Saskatchewan, the use of aftermarket window tinting or sunscreen or reflective material, other than that applied by the glass manufacturer, is prohibited on both the windshield and front side windows of a vehicle," said SGI Spokesperson Tyler McMurchy.

McMurchy said they do receive questions about the topic from time to time. He says the issue of tinted windows is largely a safety concern.

"The lower level of light can affect a driver's ability to see unlit objects and pedestrians, especially in low light conditions," McMurchy said. "Also, once that aftermarket film has been applied, it changes the mechanical properties of the glass."

"There are national standards that require automobile glass to shatter in a specific manner in the event of a collision, and that will help actually protect the driver and the occupants of the vehicle and make it easier for them to be rescued in the event of an emergency situation. That tint can actually compromise the way it's supposed to shatter."

McMurchy adds that the refraction of glass is also compromised when the film has been applied, causing objects to appear farther away or nearer than they actually are.

He said eye contact is also part of the equation.

"Pedestrians and other vehicle operators will want to see the driver and ensure that they've made that eye contact and make sure that they're being seen if they are crossing in front of a vehicle at a crosswalk for example," McMurchy said. 

He said the rules are similar in other jurisdictions in Canada, as Saskatchewan follows the national standards for automotive glass.

Police officers do have the option of handing out fines for tinted glass, but more often a warning is issued, similar to cracked glass, McMurchy said.