Mudguard Requirements
Operating a vehicle required to have mudguards without them properly installed behind the rear tires.
This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.
What is a Mudguard Requirements ticket?
CVC 28071 requires certain vehicles — especially commercial trucks and larger vehicles — to have mudguards (mudflaps) behind their rear tires to prevent mud and debris from being thrown onto other vehicles. A violation means required mudflaps are missing or inadequate. This is typically a correctable fix-it ticket.
Mudguard violations carry no DMV points. They are correctable — install proper mudflaps and get signed off. Commercial vehicles face stricter enforcement because their large tires can project debris at high velocity.
No DMV points — no insurance impact.
What the Law Says
What the Officer Must Prove
- 1Your vehicle was equipped with wipers that did not properly clear the windshield
- 2You were operating the vehicle on a public road
How Drivers Get This Ticket
Semi-truck driver is cited because rear mudflaps are torn and hanging.
Fix-it ticket; replace mudflaps, get sign-off at CHP inspection station or law enforcement office.
Common Defenses for Mudguard Requirements
These are the defense arguments that appear most often in successful Trial by Written Declarations for this violation.
Wipers were operational
CVC 28071 requires wipers that adequately clear the windshield when used. If your wipers functioned adequately for the conditions and the officer's observation was incorrect, challenge the factual basis.
Correctable violation
Replace wiper blades and get a Certificate of Correction.
How to Address This in Your Declaration
- ✓Photos showing properly installed mudflaps after repair
- ✓Installation receipts
⚠️ What NOT to Do
- ✗Operating commercial vehicles without inspecting mudflap condition before trips
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mudguard Requirements
Does my passenger car need mudflaps?▼
CVC 28071 primarily targets commercial vehicles and certain trucks. Standard passenger vehicles are not typically required to have mudflaps, though CVC 27454 (fender adequacy) still applies.
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This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.