Car windshields today have been built for safety more than ever before. A typical windshield is made of two glass panels with a layer of plastic laminated in between. They are largely impact-proof, except in the most severe collisions. This does not mean, however, that they can last forever. A windshield that has seen some wear and tear could crack from even a tiny impact, such as when a small rock hits it. When this happens, you can get your windshield either repaired or replaced.
If the crack is less than 12 inches in length, or in the case of a chip, if it is just the size of a quarter or smaller, the windshield may be repaired. Anything bigger might require a replacement. A Redmond auto glass repair and replacement company can help you determine what to do, so you should call one immediately.
It is important to have even a tiny crack repaired as soon as possible. Driving with a cracked windshield presents several safety issues, including the following:
Blocked View
If the crack or chip is on the driver’s side, it could obscure your view of the road. If it’s on the passenger’s side, it can still limit your peripheral view, which could cause you to miss a pedestrian or another car. While you might think a crack is too small to cause visual impairment, it could spread without warning, and if this happens while you’re driving, then the danger is multiplied tenfold.
Accidents
The car’s windshield plays an important role in supporting other parts of the car, particularly the roof. If you get into an accident with a cracked windshield, this could cause the entire windshield to shatter, which could then cause the roof to collapse.
Likewise, your car’s airbag could go off in an accident and hit the windshield. If the crack has compromised its integrity, it could break and send off shards, which can cause serious injuries to you or your passengers.
Traffic Violation
Because of the safety hazards they present, driving with a cracked windshield may be considered a traffic violation. You could be issued a very expensive ticket if a police officer believes the crack has rendered your car unsafe to drive.
If you believe that your windshield crack has made driving the car unsafe, it would be safer to have it towed to a repair facility. Another option would be to call a Redmond, WA auto glass repair company with mobile services, like Bullseye Auto Glass. They can perform the repair or replacement wherever you may be, so you wouldn’t need to drive far with a hazardous windshield.
Sources:
(Driving With a Cracked Windshield Is Dangerous, POG.com)
(What Are the Dangers of Driving With a Cracked Windshield?)