Is it safe to drive with a cracked windshield this winter?

 In Auto Glass, Cold weather installment, Driving Tips, Windshields

Winter in Minnesota brings extra salt, sand, and debris to our roads. With unpredictable weather impacting our driving conditions, it is not uncommon to notice more chips, cracks and dents in auto glass this time of year. But is it considered unsafe to drive with a cracked windshield?

In general, it is safe to drive a vehicle with a small infraction. But, any glass should be repaired as soon as possible for two main reasons:

  1. Damaged windshields may weaken and provide less protection to vehicle occupants. Windshields are custom designed to ensure the safety of passengers. Acting similarly to a helmet, a damaged windshield doesn’t provide the level of protection intended. Just a small crack can signify a compromise in the structural integrity of the glass and should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
  2. Safety and visibility are decreased with chipped or cracked windshields. Over time, moisture, dirt, and excess fluids may seep into auto glass layers further decreasing visibility and damage. Add in precipitation, an unknown cycle of freezing and thawing, unstable road conditions, and that small chip transformed into a large crack overnight

In the winter months, it is also important to have your windshield repaired in a heated garage,  ensuring the best outcome for the glass product and efficiency of the installers. Apollo Glass features a heated 3-bay garage, guaranteeing satisfaction for our clients and installers. Our professionals are available to help with the entire process, from a shuttle and delivery service, online scheduling, even taking care of insurance paperwork. Call Apollo Glass at 763-682-5100 or schedule online today for your auto glass needs this winter season.

 

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