A cracked windshield is very dangerous. You can drive around with a small pitted spot on the windshield as long as it does not impair your vision, but a major crack can be very harmful.
Cracked glass can shatter! This will create particles of glass that can blow in the face of drivers and passengers. A cracked rear window or damaged side windows can also shatter and harm passengers or the driver.
Don’t tape cracked or broken windows. The tape will not hold in shards of glass and the window will shatter. Instead, find a local auto glass specialist to repair or replace the glass as soon as possible.
Broken windshields can cause serious accidents. If you are driving and your windshield shatters, you could lose control of your car. In a worst-case scenario, this could result in a fatal accident.
If you have a cracked windshield, it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Don’t drive with a damaged windshield; it is simply too dangerous.
Accidental Cracks
It’s not unusual to find that the windshield is cracked or pocked by little stones or pebbles striking the glass. Small stones and pebbles are frequently responsible for damaged or pitted windshields. Gravel roads are a major cause of windshield pits and cracks. The window material will allow a tiny fracture without shattering immediately, but it will also weaken the surrounding area. Small stones can significantly damage and crack side windows as well as the back window. Smooth paved road debris includes rocks and other harmful objects.
Accidents are another common cause of windshield damage. If you are in a minor fender-bender, the impact can cause your windshield to crack. In a more serious accident, the glass may shatter completely.
Temperature Changes
Changes in temperature can also cause windshields to crack or shatter. Sudden changes from hot to cold can weaken the glass and cause it to break. This is especially true if the glass is exposed to direct sunlight before being exposed to cold temperatures.
Preventing Windshield Damage
There are several things you can do to prevent windshield damage:
Drive slower on gravel roads. Small stones can quickly damage a windshield.
Be careful when driving behind trucks on the highway. Stones and other debris can fly up and hit your windshield.
Avoid driving in extreme temperatures. If it is very hot or cold outside, try to avoid driving. If you must drive, be careful of sudden temperature changes.
Don’t park in direct sunlight. If you are going to be parked for a long time, try to find a spot in the shade.
Be cautious when driving in construction zones. There is a lot of debris on the road in these areas.
If you have a cracked windshield, don’t wait to get it fixed. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become. Driving with a damaged windshield is dangerous and it could cause an accident. Find a local auto glass specialist to repair or replace your windshield
Accidents are also a major cause of cracked and broken windshields. Even a fender-bender can result in a cracked windshield based on the impact of the collision. The impact may cause an existing small crack to grow wider and shatter even when there is no major damage to the vehicle.
If your windshield or other windows break in an accident, have them repaired immediately. The insurance should cover this damage if the vehicle is not totaled.
You may be hit by a stray rock or other debris while driving behind a large truck, motorhome, or construction vehicle. When you’re in a car, SUV, or smaller truck, maintain a safe distance from enormous trucks.
If possible, avoid driving in extreme hot or cold weather as this can also cause your windshield to crack. Sudden changes in temperature can damage the glass. Try to park in the shade if you will be gone for an extended period of time as direct sunlight can heat up the glass and make it more susceptible to cracking. When driving in a construction zone, be aware that there is always debris on the road which could hit your windshield. If you have a crack in your windshield, get it repaired right away by a professional. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become and it could result in an accident if not fixed. Your insurance should cover this type of damage if the car is not totaled from the accident. Drive safely!
Hail is definitely possible. A storm may spring up suddenly while you’re driving about Greensboro or other Triad regions. Slow down and pull over to the side of the road if the weather becomes too violent. The hail can pierce or severely shatter your windshield. If your windshield has an existing fracture, the hail may cause it to break further. Hail damage your automobile’s windows could require costly repairs. As soon as possible, contact your insurance company and have the damaged glass in your parked vehicle replaced.
The sun’s rays can cause tiny cracks in your windshield to grow. Park in the shade or use a windshield visor to deflect direct sunlight.
You may not be able to avoid driving in hot weather, but you can take steps to protect your windshield. Park in the shade when possible. Use a windshield sun visor when driving. Do not leave your car windows open for an extended period of time as this will heat up the interior of your car and could cause the glass to crack.
Sudden changes in temperature can also damage your windows. Avoid quick changes from hot to cold, such as opening the door of a heated car into a cold garage. The extreme change in temperature may cause the glass to shatter.
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Be wary if you park beneath a tree. While the shade may be appealing, inspect the tree carefully. Branches and other debris can cause windshields to crack. Keeping your car cool and secure from harm is often easier with an underground or multilevel parking garage.
Another hazard to avoid is driving behind a large truck. The wind from the truck’s movement can dislodge small rocks and other debris, which can then fly into your windshield and cause damage. If you must drive behind a large truck, try to stay as far back as possible.
Finally, be extra careful in construction zones. The risk of flying debris is especially high in these areas. If possible, avoid driving through construction zones altogether. If you must, be sure to drive slowly and be on the lookout for flying debris.
If your windshield does sustain damage, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Driving with a cracked windshield is extremely dangerous.