Should decorative items be banned from car dashboards?

In Vietnam, there are currently no regulations prohibiting placing decorative items on car dashboards, so placing such items is not considered a violation.

However, in some countries around the world, this will result in a fine. The reason is that drivers placing obstacles on their vehicles will obstruct visibility, easily leading to accidents. Therefore, if a collision occurs and there are decorative objects obstructing visibility, you will still be fined even if you are not at fault.

For example, in the UK, if you are caught displaying decorations on your dashboard or rearview mirror, or even just sticking a picture on your windshield, you will immediately be fined £100 (approximately 3 million VND) and lose 3 penalty points on your driving license. If you appeal, the fine can increase to a maximum of £1,000 (approximately 30 million VND).

In Vietnam, traffic safety experts also advise drivers not to place objects or stick tape or stickers on the dashboard of their vehicles.

The reason is that decorative items, whether made of plastic, wood, or any other material, if not securely fastened, can fly off and hit the occupants of the vehicle during sudden braking or an accident, posing a danger.

Even pretty decorative items placed on the car's dashboard can narrow the driver's field of vision while operating the vehicle.

In particular, placing objects on the car's dashboard can affect the operation of the front airbags, and may even put pressure on them, preventing them from deploying in the event of an accident.

In addition, placing the entertainment screen on the car's dashboard, next to the driver's seat, can distract the driver, affecting their ability to judge and handle traffic situations on the road.

Therefore, many believe that regulations prohibiting decorative items on car dashboards are necessary to ensure safety while driving.