Why You Should Never Drive With A Cracked Automobile Windshield

A crack on your windshield is not anything to ignore. Whether it is due to a car crash or an impact from a falling object, ignoring it can lead to costly and regrettable consequences. Here are four possible outcomes of failing to schedule auto glass repair services in good time.

Possible Accident 

Driving your car with a damaged windshield reduces visibility, especially in bad weather or low lighting. Without clear visibility, you cannot judge the distance between you and the oncoming cars or other objects on the road. That increases the risk of a collision or crash. 

Moreover, the windshield supports the car's roof in most automobiles, and it keeps the roof intact in case of an unfortunate rollover. Cracked auto glass will not offer that support and may cause the roof to curve and injure the car's occupants.

Airbag Malfunction

The airbag cushions you from the impact of an accident and protects you from severe injuries. However, a damaged windshield lowers the efficiency of the airbags in the unfortunate event of an accident. If cracked, the windshield will shatter down quickly, causing the airbags to open outside the vehicle. In this scenario, the airbags will not provide the much-needed cushion for you and your passenger. 

Continuing Damage

Many car owners disregard minor cracks on the windshield. But as insignificant as they may seem, they can quickly grow into a safety risk. The expansion and the contraction caused on the windshield by the temperature changes cause the crack to spread, leading to a spider web pattern around the spot. The web-like structure affects your visibility when driving. Also, slamming the door with a cracked windshield can cause it to shatter. Carrying out a timely auto glass repair can spare you a total windshield replacement.

Risk of Ejection

It is advisable to fasten seatbelts when in a car to prevent ejection during a collision or a serious impact. If, for any reason, you do not have your seatbelt fastened during an accident, the other protection is the windshield. When your auto glass has a crack, it may not be strong enough to protect you from ejection. Thus, investing in a car glass replacement can save you from severe injuries that you are likely to incur when you have a cracked windshield. 

Never take a crack on your automobile windshield lightly, as it can bring about many life-threatening situations. A timely auto glass repair will save you a lot of trouble on the road and give your car a great appearance. If you have a crack, reach out to an auto glass repair professional. 


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