Windshield chips may seem like a minor inconvenience that can be fixed at a later date, but the reality is that there are many unseen dangers in not fixing a chipped windshield. The faster you get the chip addressed, the safer you will be. Chips can spread into cracks easily, and cracks destroy the structural integrity of your windshield.
Your vehicle’s windshield blocks rain, snow, wind, sleet and more while providing clear visibility while you drive. Some cracks may appear small enough to ignore for the time being but just because you can drive with a cracked windshield doesn’t mean that you should.
Dangers of a Windshield Crack
A cracked windshield brings many risks with it, some of which can be life-threatening. By fixing your chipped or cracked windshield immediately, you are preventing catastrophes down the road. If you are in an accident with a crack in your windshield, it is more likely that you will sustain injuries from the glass breaking in your ineffective windshield. Airbags can also be ineffective when they are at risk of being cut by flying glass.
Additionally, if you are busy looking around a crack while you are driving, you are less likely to be focused on the myriad of different safety features in and around your vehicle while you are on the road.
What is the Difference Between a Chip and a Crack?
A chip is a small blemish caused when a small impact breaks away a portion of the glass layer. This is usually easy to repair if it is small enough. However, if the chip is deep enough that it penetrates the inner layer of plastic, you may be looking at a replacement. While small chips on their own may not be a huge concern, when they grow into cracks, you are looking at a much more costly replacement. By acting early, you will save your pocketbook and possibly your life.
A crack is any breakage in the windshield that is greater than the size of a quarter. Cracks tend to spread across the windshield, and they can expand with weather conditions, or bumps of the car on the road. A windshield usually needs to be replaced when it has a crack that is larger than the size of a dollar bill. Cracks seriously impact the ability of your windshield to withstand the forces of any type of impact, whether it be in a car accident or from getting behind a truck with unsecured trash.
Will my Insurance Pay for my Windshield Repair or Replacement?
In the State of Idaho, there is no law that requires insurance to pay for the repair or replacements of windshields, however depending on the type of insurance that you have, these procedures are often covered. If you have comprehensive insurance coverage, it’s very likely that your company will be able to ease your financial burden. For those who only carry liability insurance, it is less likely that your windshield repair or replacement will be covered.
Either way, it is imperative that you get your windshield repaired as soon as you notice the chip or crack, for your safety as well as the safety of the other passengers in your car. Whether it’s a single chip or an entire network of cracks, repairing and replacing your windshield is an essential job. You can contact Windshield Repair Specialists at (208) 283-2447 to schedule your repair or replacement today!