- Driving with a broken windshield poses significant risks for drivers and passengers.
- Impaired visibility, reduced structural integrity, and breaking/shattering are common dangers of driving with a damaged windshield.
- It can also lead to legal consequences and increase the risk of infection from contaminants entering the vehicle.
- After discovering a broken windshield, steps include assessing the damage, contacting insurance, and calling for mobile auto-glass repair services.
- To prevent future damage, avoid direct sunlight, keep the windshield clean, and be gentle when closing car doors.
Regarding driving, safety should be a top priority. Unfortunately, some people overlook some of the most common hazards on the road – such as driving with a broken windshield.
A damaged windshield may not seem like a big deal, but it can create significant risks for you and your passengers. This blog post will explore the dangers of driving with a broken windshield and the importance of fixing it as soon as possible.
Impaired Visibility
A cracked windshield can significantly hinder your visibility while operating a vehicle. Cracks or chips can create glares or blind spots that make it difficult to see the road ahead or other cars. This can increase the risk of getting into an accident. Additionally, if your windshield is dirty, it may worsen the visibility problems caused by cracks and chips.
Reduced Structural Integrity
A windshield is a window to the outside world and a critical part of your vehicle’s structural integrity. A small crack or chip can quickly spread and compromise the entire windshield’s strength, increasing the risk of collapse in an accident.
A windshield is also designed to assist with airbag deployment in a collision. When a windshield is damaged, it may not be able to support the airbag’s force, leading to severe injuries or even death.
Breaking and Shattering
In case of a severe impact or collision, a damaged windshield is more likely to break and shatter, causing dangerous shards of glass to fly inside the car. This is very hazardous, especially to passengers sitting directly behind the windshield. Flying glass fragments can result in severe injuries, including cuts, lacerations, and even blindness.
Legal Issues
Driving with a broken windshield can result in legal consequences. If the damage or crack obstructs your view, law enforcement officials can issue you a traffic citation for reckless driving or obstructed view. In addition to the legal penalty, the ticket cost may be expensive in terms of fines and increased insurance premiums.
Risk of Infection
A cracked windshield makes your vehicle vulnerable to dust, dirt, and bugs. While your air conditioning system filters out some contaminants, microscopic pollutants can still penetrate the cracks and contaminate your vehicle’s interior. This can create potential respiratory health risks to occupants, especially those suffering from respiratory illnesses like asthma.
What to Do
Do not fret if you find yourself with a cracked or shattered windshield. You can take steps to ensure that it gets fixed properly and quickly. Here are the steps to follow:
Assess the Extent of the Damage
Before deciding what to do with a broken windshield, you must assess the damage’s extent. If you notice a small crack or chip in your windshield, you can fix it using a windshield repair kit. However, if the gap is more significant than a few inches or the windshield is completely shattered, it is best to seek professional help.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If you are covered by comprehensive car insurance, you may be eligible for windshield repair or replacement at little or no cost. Call your insurance company and find out what benefits you are entitled to. Some insurance companies even offer roadside assistance, which will help you find a reliable auto-glass company to help you with the repairs.
Call for Mobile Auto-Glass Repair Services
The next thing you need to do is to call for professional mobile auto-glass repair services. These services allow you to have your windshield repaired or replaced at a location you choose, whether at home, work, or even on the side of the road. This makes getting your windshield fixed much more convenient and hassle-free.
Take Preventative Measures
Once your windshield has been repaired or replaced, it is essential to take preventative measures to avoid another crack or break. Avoid parking in direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as the heat can cause the glass to expand and contract, leading to further damage. Also, keep your windshield clean and free of debris that can weaken the glass. Lastly, avoid slamming your car doors shut, as the pressure can cause stress on the windshield.
The Bottomline
It’s easy to put off fixing a cracked or chipped windshield, but it’s not a problem that should be ignored. Driving with a broken windshield can be dangerous for you and your passengers. Getting your windshield fixed by a professional as soon as possible is crucial. By doing so, you’ll not only be ensuring your safety on the road, but you’ll also be avoiding legal and health complications. Safe driving always starts with maintaining your vehicle’s mechanical and structural integrity.
