A cracked windshield is a common issue that vehicle owners face, and it can be a real safety hazard when you’re on the road. The rough weather conditions, sudden temperature changes, and flying rocks make it more challenging to keep a vehicle’s windshield intact. Stay Safe Out There: What to Do If Your Windshield Cracks While Driving
Moreover, a minor windshield crack can grow larger as you drive, obstructing your vision and putting your and other drivers’ lives in danger. Knowing what to do if your windshield cracks while you’re driving is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Here are some steps to follow if your windshield cracks while you’re driving.
Stay Calm and Keep Your Distance
If your windshield suddenly cracks while driving, try to keep calm and slow down your vehicle. It is not recommended to panic or take sudden actions that may cause accidents. Moreover, keep your distance from other vehicles to avoid road accidents, and make sure to turn on your hazard lights to signal other drivers of your presence on the road.
If you have to pull over, finding a safe place to do so is essential. Look for a spot that is away from traffic and other drivers in order to minimize the risk of an accident or injury. Look for well-lit open parking lots, clear shoulder areas on the highway, or service stations where you can stop your vehicle with peace of mind. Avoid stopping in areas that are not visible to other drivers or have blind spots. Once you arrive at a safe spot, turn off your engine and wait for assistance.
Assess the Damage
Once you have slowed down and reached a safe spot, take a moment to assess the damage to your windshield. Determine the size, location, and severity of the crack to understand how best to deal with the situation.
If the crack is small and not affecting your visibility, you can drive your vehicle to the nearest auto shop or service center. If the crack is large or affecting your line of vision, then you should immediately seek professional help. Call a tow truck or roadside assistance service to take your vehicle to the nearest auto shop for repair. Be sure to explain the extent of the damage and request an urgent inspection when you call them so that they can prioritize your case. Additionally, if there are pieces of flying debris or broken shards of glass that you need to remove from your vehicle, be sure to handle them with care and put on protective gloves before doing so.
Cover the Crack
If the crack is severe and obstructing your vision, cover it with a transparent material such as a plastic bag or sheet of clear packing tape. This will prevent debris or water from entering the crack and also make it less noticeable while you are driving.
It would help if you never covered a crack in your windshield with any material that is not transparent. Non-transparent materials such as tape, paper, or cloth can further obstruct your vision and create blind spots on the road. Additionally, these materials will not be able to protect against debris or moisture entering the crack and may worsen the damage.
Call for Help
If you are unable to drive your vehicle safely or the crack is severe, call for help or towing services. They will tow your car to a service center to repair or replace the windshield.
It is important to vet a tow company before any windshield cracks occur, as this will give you peace of mind should you ever need their services. When choosing a tow company, make sure they are properly licensed and insured so that any damage caused during the towing process is covered. Additionally, read online reviews and ask for customer references to ensure they provide quality service. Finally, make sure to ask for a detailed quote before the towing process starts so that you can be aware of any costs involved.
Repair or Replace the Windshield
Once you have reached a service center, the mechanic will determine if the crack is repairable or if the windshield needs replacement. If the crack is small and not affecting the driver’s line of sight, the mechanic may repair it using a resin injection technique, which is less costly and time-consuming. However, if the crack is large or obstructs the driver’s vision, the windshield may need replacement, which is more expensive and takes longer.
In a severe case, it is best to call a Mobile Chipped Windshield Replacement technician. A mobile technician can quickly come to any location and fix the crack onsite in an emergency. They are experienced professionals who have the right tools and expertise to identify the cause of the crack and make necessary repairs or replacements if needed. Additionally, their services are convenient, affordable, and tailored to specific needs. Mobile windshield repair technicians are available 24/7 and can assist you in emergency cases to make sure your vehicle is safe to drive.
Worst-Case Scenario
If your windshield shatters while you’re driving, it is essential to remain calm and keep your distance from other vehicles. Immediately turn on your hazard lights and look for a safe place to pull over far away from traffic. Once you have stopped in a safe spot, call for help or roadside assistance services to take your vehicle to the nearest service center.
Before exiting the car, cover any broken pieces of glass with a blanket or towel to protect yourself and other passengers from injury. Do not attempt to repair the windshield as it is dangerous and requires professional expertise. Finally, seek medical assistance if you experience any cuts from broken shards of glass.
Driving with a cracked windshield is risky and illegal in some states and countries. Therefore, if you find yourself in a situation where your windshield cracks while driving, it is important to stay calm, assess the damage, cover the crack, call for help if needed, and have your windshield repaired or replaced. In the worst-case scenario of a windshield outright shattering, taking special precautions is necessary. Staying safe on the road is essential for ensuring the safety of yourself and other drivers. Take precautions and always do your best to keep your windshield in good condition.
About the Author:
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find her on Twitter and Facebook.