What Should I Do About My Cracked Windshield?

Windshields are similar to auto tires in the sense that drivers tend to take them for granted despite their crucial function. Tires are the only part of a vehicle that are in constant contact with the road. In the case of windshields, they provide visibility while protecting drivers from debris as well as from the elements, and their functionality is accomplished despite being made of a fragile material.

Chipped or cracked windshields tend to be treated as an afterthought by many vehicle owners who feel the size and position of the fracture doesn’t impair their visibility. Notwithstanding this assumption, section 26710 of the California Vehicle Code shouldn’t be ignored in this regard. If a law enforcement officer determines a cracked windshield is creating an unsafe driving condition, a traffic ticket could be issued. Here are some recommendations when dealing with a broken windshield.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Windshield repair is one of those situations that prompts drivers to consider upgrading their auto insurance. San Diego drivers often choose full coverage for this reason. Some insurers offer glass coverage on a rider basis, while others may include it as a provision within comprehensive auto insurance San Diego policies. A full replacement of a windshield may be expensive. The cost of a spot resin repair may fall under the deductible, which is often a reason drivers choose to adjust their premiums and eliminate their deductible obligations.

Don’t Wait Too Long for Repairs

Let’s say a California Highway Patrol officer determines a crack on the passenger side doesn’t merit a traffic ticket. Some drivers continue operating their vehicles in such an instance, but this is a risky decision to make. The problem with chips and cracks, particularly those that look like spider webs, is that they’re likely to expand, thus increasing the likelihood of a more expensive repair.

Watch for Multiple Cracks

\Driving around with three or more windshield cracks is dangerous for a couple of reasons. First of all, the damage may expand and the fractures in the glass may interconnect, thus reducing visibility. In modern vehicles, there’s no real risk of a windshield collapsing inward or outward, but a minor impact may result in the need for complete replacement, especially when the damage is located near the corners and edges of the glass pane.

Get the Windshield Repaired

As long as the crack is less than two inches wide, drivers may want to try their hand with a windshield repair kit sold at local auto parts stores. These kits include advanced resins and tools that aren’t difficult to use, but they shouldn’t be used on fractures that affect visibility. Professional windshield glass repairs aren’t very expensive unless they involve multiple surface pit points. Combination breaks may require careful drilling by technicians, which could translate into a higher repair bill.

Make sure you have adequate auto insurance in the event you end up with a cracked windshield or other damage to your vehicle. Reach out to Altra Insurance Services today. We also offer affordable motorcycle, home, and car insurance Chula Vista. Local residents can call (800) 719-9972 for a free quote.