(a) No insurance company employee or property damage appraiser shall request or advise any motor vehicle owner or operator to operate their vehicle on any public thoroughfare for the purpose of obtaining a written estimate of damage at a drive-in claims center, unless it is ascertained that the vehicle meets safety requirements as determined by the department of transportation.
(b) A vehicle shall be deemed unsafe for driving pursuant to the provisions of this section if the vehicle has:
(1) Damage to its unitized body construction;
(2) Damage to its hood catch that would probably result in an unexpected opening;
(3) Damage to the front suspension;
(4) Metal in contact with any tire;
(5) Any door that cannot be easily opened or that opens unexpectedly;
(6) Inoperable tail lights;
(7) Broken glass affixed to the vehicle or a cracked windshield; or
(8) Any other condition deemed to be unsafe by the department of transportation pursuant to rules and regulations.