4 Downsides to Ignoring a Cracked Windshield

1. Legal Vulnerability

Driving with a cracked windshield might bring problems with local law enforcement agencies since it is considered a traffic violation in some states. If you get pulled over and the officer notices your cracked windshield, they could cite you with a ticket and fine. 

You can be sure the cost of the citation by the officer will be more than the cost of fixing your windshield, as some cracks only cost a few hundred dollars to fix.

Even if an officer doesn't stop you, driving with a damaged windshield can also expose you to legal risk in the event of an accident. Suppose an accident occurs and the other party sues you for negligence. In that case, your cracked windshield could be evidence to show that you failed to take care of a known problem with your vehicle. 

Furthermore, a cracked windshield can make it harder for you to claim your car insurance policy in some states if your car is in an accident.

2. Loss of Structural Integrity

A windshield supports the car's roof and provides approximately 30 per cent of the structural support for your vehicle. 

A cracked windshield can impact the car's structural integrity, particularly in the event of a rollover accident. When your car rolls over, the windshield helps to keep the roof from caving in on passengers inside.

3. Ineffective Deployment of Airbags

A windshield is an integral part of your safety. The windshield impacts how the airbag deploys in the event of an accident. The windshield is part of the deployment process for some airbags, since the glass has a sensor that tells the airbag when it should deploy. 

A cracked windshield means the sensor might not work correctly, leading to failure or ineffective deployment of airbags. Unsuccessful deployment results from cracks obstructing the sensor's mechanism that triggers inflation.

Moreover, airbags deploy at more than 200 miles per hour. A cracked windshield will shatter when the airbag inflates. The broken glass will likely ricochet into you or a passenger's face and cause serious injury.

4. Obstruction to Visibility

The most obvious danger of a cracked windshield is the obstruction it causes to your vision. A crack in your windshield can cause distortion and glare, making driving unsafe for you and other drivers. 

Even if the damage is minor and in your peripheral vision, it can make driving more complicated than it needs to be. For this reason, you should have any cracks or chips in your windshield repaired immediately.

While a small crack on your windshield is often easy to ignore, doing so comes with consequences. Windshield cracks can extend spontaneously while driving, making it a constant danger on the road. Plus, it's illegal to drive with one. Repairing a crack is not difficult or expensive, so there is no excuse for ignoring it. If you notice a crack in your windshield, take care of it before it becomes an issue. 

If you have any questions about your windshield, be sure to give us a call and we can refer an expert to assist you.