Colorado Switching to Screen-Printed License Plates for Better Visibility
Having a visible license plate is crucial for identification and enforcement purposes. However, the paint and coatings on license plates can wear off over time, making them difficult to see. In Colorado, where winter weather conditions are similar to those in Maine, lawmakers are taking steps to change the type of license plates allowed in order to improve durability and visibility.
The current raised-letter license plates in Colorado are prone to wear and tear. The coatings used on these plates can fade and become less visible over time, especially in harsh weather conditions. This reduction in visibility not only poses challenges for law enforcement but also affects automated toll systems that rely on accurate plate reading.
To address this issue, Colorado is following in the footsteps of several other states by transitioning to screen-printed license plates. States like New Jersey, Ohio, Texas, and others have already made the switch due to the superior durability and visibility offered by screen-printed plates. Even New York canceled a contract renewal with 3M after experiencing peeling and wearing of license plates in its harsh winter weather.
One of the key advantages of screen-printed license plates is their ability to maintain visibility over time. The screen-printing process ensures that the coatings used on the plates are more resistant to wear and fading. This means that the plates will remain legible and easily identifiable, even after prolonged exposure to road salt, sand, and other environmental factors.
In addition to improving visibility, screen-printed license plates also enhance safety on the roads. The reflective coating used in the printing process allows the plates to stand out at night, making them easier to spot for other drivers and law enforcement officers. This increased visibility can help prevent accidents and aid in the identification of vehicles involved in criminal activities.
Colorado is not the only state that requires front license plates. Several other states, including Maine, Iowa, Idaho, Connecticut, and California, also mandate the use of a second plate on the front bumper. By switching to screen-printed license plates, these states can ensure that both the front and rear plates remain visible and legible, regardless of weather conditions or wear and tear.
The transition to screen-printed license plates is a significant step towards improving the overall efficiency of license plate systems. Automated toll systems, for example, rely on accurate plate reading for seamless operations. With screen-printed plates, these systems can accurately read and process license plate information, reducing errors and improving overall efficiency.
Law enforcement agencies also benefit from the switch to screen-printed plates. The enhanced visibility and durability of these plates make it easier for officers to identify vehicles and enforce traffic laws. This can lead to more effective law enforcement and safer roads for everyone.
In conclusion, Colorado’s decision to switch to screen-printed license plates is a positive move towards improving visibility and durability. By adopting this technology, the state can ensure that license plates remain legible and easily identifiable over time, even in harsh weather conditions. This transition not only benefits law enforcement and automated toll systems but also enhances safety on the roads. As more states recognize the advantages of screen-printed license plates, we can expect to see widespread adoption of this technology across the country.
