Can a Car GPS Bracket Interfere with Your View or Safety?

Mounting a car GPS bracket incorrectly can block your view and create safety risks. Learn the safest ways to position your GPS device while driving.

Car GPS brackets are designed to make navigation easier and hands-free, keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. But when mounted improperly, that same bracket can compromise visibility, distract you while driving, and even violate local traffic laws. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a road tripper, or a rideshare driver, understanding the potential safety concerns of GPS mount placement is essential.

Let’s explore how a car GPS bracket can affect your view and driving safety, how to avoid these issues, and how to choose the best mounting location for maximum convenience and compliance.

Why GPS Bracket Placement Affects Driving Safety

GPS devices are handy, but they demand your attention. If placed in the wrong position, they cannot just block your vision but also distract your eyes and focus from the road. This small mistake can sometimes lead to delayed reaction times, missed signals, or even traffic accidents.

Key Visibility Issues Caused by Poor GPS Mount Placement:

• Blocks a portion of the windshield or dashboard
  
• Obstructs the view of pedestrians or cyclists
  
• It hinders your ability to see stop signs or traffic lights
  
• Causes blind spots, especially in tight urban traffic
  
• Reflects sunlight, creating glare and distraction

Even a few inches of visual obstruction can be dangerous, particularly at intersections, during lane changes, or in poor weather conditions.

Is It Legal to Mount a GPS on Your Windshield?

Depending on where you live, local traffic laws may prohibit mounting devices on the windshield. States and countries vary widely in their regulations; violating them can result in a ticket or fine.

For example:

• California law allows GPS devices to be mounted only in the windshield’s lower left or right corners.
  
• UK regulations state that nothing should block your view through the windscreen.
  
• Dubai traffic laws emphasize complete driver visibility, and obstruction by any electronic device may be considered a safety violation.

Mounting your GPS in the middle of the windshield is almost always a bad idea.

Tip: Review your region’s regulations before installing a new GPS bracket to ensure compliance.

Location: Please Visit Our Shujha Auto Garage

Safer GPS Bracket Placement Options

So, where should you mount your GPS device for optimal safety? Below are recommended placement options that keep your navigation tool within reach, without compromising your view:

Dashboard Mounts

• Easy to install and legal in most regions
  
• Keeps the device at eye level without blocking the windshield
  
• Works well in most modern cars with flat dashboards

Air Vent Mounts

• Attach securely to your car’s air conditioning vents
  
• Positioned lower than eye level, reducing distraction
  
• It is convenient and doesn’t obstruct any view

CD Slot Mounts

• Ideal for vehicles with unused CD players
  
• Keeps the screen visible without compromising windshield visibility
  
• Great for older cars with minimal dashboard space

Hidden Dangers: When a GPS Bracket Becomes a Safety Hazard

A poorly installed or low-quality GPS bracket can pose more than just visibility concerns. In a sudden stop or crash, the device—or the bracket itself—can become a projectile, causing injury or further distraction.

Watch out for:

• Loose suction cups or magnetic mounts that detach easily
  
• Overly bulky mounts that shake while driving
  
• Cheap brackets made with low-grade plastic or weak adhesive

Pro Tip: Always invest in a high-quality GPS bracket tested for grip strength, vibration resistance, and durability.

How to Install a GPS Bracket the Safe Way

Installation is just as important as choosing the correct type of bracket. Follow these safety tips to ensure proper setup:

1. Clean the mounting surface thoroughly before attaching.
   
2. Avoid areas in the driver’s direct line of sight.
   
3. Test different positions while seated in your normal driving posture.
   
4. Secure the bracket tightly to prevent slippage or rattling.
   
5. Adjust the angle to eliminate glare and ensure easy screen readability.

Bonus: Best GPS Brackets for Safety and Convenience (2025 Picks)

Are you looking for a quality mount that checks all the safety boxes? Here are three popular GPS brackets highly rated for design, stability, and safety:

1. Lottie Easy One Touch 5 Dashboard Mount – Suction-based, versatile, and easy to adjust.
   
2. Kenu Airframe Pro Vent Mount – Compact and secure, great for minimalists.
   
3. Scosche MagicMount CD Slot Mount – Ideal for a central view without windshield obstruction.

These models offer durable construction, minimal distraction, and a secure fit for most GPS devices or smartphones used for navigation.

Final Thoughts: Safety First, Navigation Second

While GPS devices are essential for modern driving, it’s critical to prioritize safety over convenience. The right car GPS bracket should enhance your journey—and not put you or others at risk. Choosing the correct mounting location and type allows you to stay focused on the road, reduce distractions, and remain compliant with traffic laws.