The Dangers of Driving with a Cracked Windshield

When our windshields become cracked, we’re typically surprised. Like other accidental or vandalistic situations, no one plans for their windshield to be damaged. But when it happens, the clock starts ticking. The longer you let your windshield remain damaged, the more you put yourself and your passengers at risk.

We are going to say this as clearly as possible: Driving with a cracked windshield is dangerous. It poses significant risks to the safety of not only you and your passengers but also to everyone around your vehicle. Below are the dangers you put everyone in when you don’t have your cracked windshield repaired.

1. Compromised Structural Integrity

Not many drivers are aware of the crucial role their windshield plays in maintaining the structural integrity of their vehicles. This is especially true during an accident or a rollover. Cracked windshields weaken the structure of the cab you drive in, making the roof more susceptible to collapsing when colliding with something. This increases your risk of serious injury.

2. Impaired Visibility

Cracks can obstruct the driver’s view of the road, especially if they’re directly in the line of sight. Cracks also cause glare and can distort light from the headlights of oncoming traffic or streetlights. This makes it difficult for the driver to see at night or during hazardous weather conditions.

3. Faulty Airbag Deployment

In many vehicles, the passenger-side airbag depends on the windshield during deployment. If the windshield is cracked, it may not withstand the force of the deploying airbag. This can lead to improper deployment or a failure to inflate, leaving your passenger unprotected during a crash.

4. Increased Risk of Ejection

Cracked windshields are far more likely to shatter on impact. This increases the risk of everyone in the vehicle being ejected during an accident. Ejection from a vehicle typically results in fatalities or severe injuries.

5. Escalation of Existing Damage

It doesn’t matter how small the damage is; even the tiniest chip on a windshield can spread fast and become a huge crack when exposed to temperature changes, road vibrations, or other impacts. The bigger the damage, the more likely you will need to replace the entire windshield, which is why you should take care of windshield damage as soon as you discover it.

6. Driver Distraction

There’s a reason why it’s illegal to have things dangling from your rearview mirror in some states — because it’s distracting. So is a crack in the windshield. Distracted drivers lead to accidents, which are never good. This is especially true if the crack is obstructing the driver’s view.

7. Legal Consequences

In some states, it’s against the law to drive a vehicle with a damaged windshield. We operate in Colorado, where there is no specific law against driving with a damaged windshield. But it is against the law to drive with an obstructed view, which a crack causes. If you are pulled over and a police officer sees the crack, they could cite you for an obstruction.

The biggest takeaway from all of this is that it’s extremely dangerous to drive around with a cracked windshield. We understand that most people don’t plan for damaged windshields, so finding the time to take it into a shop is difficult. Luckily, mobile auto glass repair services come to you. That way, you can continue to work on whatever you need to get done while a technician repairs or replaces your windshield.

Do You Have a Cracked Windshield in Aurora or the Colorado Springs Area?

If you live in or around Aurora, Littleton, or Broomfield, CO, and you need a windshield repair or replacement, contact us at Chip Pros Auto Glass. We offer a lifetime warranty on craftsmanship, insurance claims assistance, and guarantee a 24-hour turnaround. Chip Pros Auto Glass has been servicing this area of Colorado for more than forty years. Click here for a free quote!