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.
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.
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.
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.
⚠️ What NOT to Do
Optionally describe your situation — road conditions, time of day, officer position — and get a tailored document preparation overview.
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.
Upload your citation and TicketClear generates a personalized Trial by Written Declaration based on your specific situation. Starting at $49.99.
Check if my ticket qualifiesTakes 2 minutes. No payment required to check.
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.
Most California citations expire in 60 days. Check yours in 2 minutes. No payment required to see if you qualify.
Check my deadline, it's freeTakes 2 minutes. No payment required to check.