A cracked windshield can pose a serious safety risk. Drivers worry that a cracked windshield will shatter while driving at high speeds, particularly. Although windshields are built to last, driving with a crack in the glass is still dangerous. We’ll examine whether or not your cracked glass is likely to break and what you can do.
Will a Cracked Windshield Shatter?
It’s possible for a cracked glass to shatter completely while driving. Modern windshields consist of laminated safety glasses, which are two layers of glass sandwiched between a layer of plastic. The design prevents the windshield from breaking into dangerous shards even when it is damaged.
A cracked windshield, however, is weaker, making it more susceptible to further damage. Temperature changes, potholes, or a sudden impact by debris, can all worsen a crack. The plastic layer usually holds the glass together but it doesn’t prevent the risk of the windshield collapsing in an accident or reducing visibility.
Risks Of Driving With A Cracked Windshield
Even if your windshield does not break, it can be dangerous to drive with a crack. Some of the most important risks are:
- Reduced structural integrity: Your vehicle’s structure is largely determined by the windshield, particularly in the event of an accident. A cracked glass is less strong and can’t provide the same protection.
- Visibility Issues: This can make it difficult to see clearly. It becomes more dangerous at night and in bad weather when light can reflect through the cracks causing glare.
- Expanding cracks: Due to vibrations or temperature changes, small chips or cracked can grow quickly. As a crack grows, it can compromise the windshield further and increase the risk of failure.
What Should You Do?
It’s important to fix a cracked windshield as soon as you can. You can repair small chips and cracks without having to replace the entire windshield. This will save you money while maintaining the integrity of the vehicle. If the crack is large or blocks your vision, it may be necessary to replace the windshield.
While it is unlikely that your cracked windshield will shatter while you are driving, there are still risks to your safety. The best way to keep your vehicle safe is to have the crack fixed or replace the windshield.
This post was written by a professional at At Home Auto Glass. At Home Auto Glass is your prime destination for auto glass services, catering to a diverse array of vehicles and needs. We work with insurance companies to get your new windshield today! Specializing in windshield repair and replacement, we ensure clarity and safety for every drive. Our expertise doesn’t end there; we also offer back glass replacement, side window replacement, and cater to specific needs for RV glass, commercial vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars, ensuring that every vehicle type is serviced with precision and care. Proudly serving Florida, our reach extends across Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, Tallahassee, Ocala, Gainesville, and Jacksonville. Call us now to get your quote for your Windshield replacement Tallahassee.
