Cracked Windshield Dangers

The windshield of your car protects you from the elements. If keeps you from being exposed to rain, heat, snow and wind. The windshield acts as a shield against debris and bugs and can even support the framework of your car. Damage to the windshield may present a danger to you and your passengers.

Causes

The most common cause of a cracked windshield is a flying piece of gravel or stone kicked up by a passing car. The driver does not usually see the debris coming, or realize what has happened, until the crack appears. If left unrepaired, a small nick, or ding, can turn into a much larger crack in the cold weather.

Safety

The car windshield is considered a safety feature of a car. In the case of an accident, the windshield can prevent the driver and passengers from being ejected from the automobile. In many cars it also supports the front passenger side airbag system. In the case of a rollover, your windshield helps maintain the structural integrity of your car and prevents the roof from collapsing. If the occupant of a car is thrown forward, during a crash, the windshield will cushion the blow.

Dangers

The most obvious danger of a cracked windshield is the potential reduction in driver visibility.

A cracked or damaged windshield may be weakened and less able to withstand the stress of a crash. Any damage larger than the size of a U.S. quarter may have damaged the structural integrity of the windshield.

A cracked windshield may not properly support the passenger airbag system. This can cause the airbag to not deploy correctly.

Repair

It can be possible to repair small chips and cracks. More significant damage will require windshield replacement, especially if the damage is in the driver's sight line.

Windshield repair, instead of replacement, maintains the integrity of the glass factory seal.

Consult a competent auto glass specialist if there is any damage to your windshield to appropriately assess the need to replace or repair the glass.

Maintenance

It is important to perform a regular safety check of your windshield and address any damage as soon as possible. Sometimes the damage is small and may not be easily noticed without careful inspection. Include an inspection of the window seals in your review; damage to the seal may weaken the strength of the windshield. Windshield wipers should be replaced on a regular basis to ensure they do not scratch or otherwise damage the windshield.