If your windshield or side window gets cracked or shattered, you might wonder whether it’s safe—or even legal—to keep driving. While laws vary by province, most regulations agree on one thing: driving with damaged glass can lead to fines and put you and others at risk. Here’s what you should know before hitting the road with broken auto glass.
Visibility Requirements
Canadian laws require your windshield to be free of obstructions that impair your view of the road. If a crack or chip affects your line of sight, it can be considered unsafe and illegal to drive.
According to Transport Canada, any damage that interferes with visibility increases your chances of a collision.
Structural Integrity and Safety
Your windshield is part of your vehicle’s structural support system. A damaged windshield may not protect you properly in a rollover or collision. In many cases, even if a crack doesn’t block your view, it still compromises safety.
Side and rear windows are also critical. If broken glass exposes your interior, your vehicle could be deemed unfit for the road.
Potential Fines and Penalties
Depending on where you live, driving with broken glass can lead to:
- Tickets and fines
- Vehicle safety inspection failure
- Insurance issues if you’re in an accident
For example, Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act prohibits driving a vehicle in a dangerous or unsafe condition. Police officers have the authority to issue fines or order repairs before you can drive again.
Insurance Considerations
If you keep driving with broken glass and have an accident, your insurance company could deny a claim on the basis that your vehicle was unsafe. Comprehensive insurance usually covers glass repair and replacement, so there’s no reason to wait.
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), prompt repair or replacement helps maintain your coverage and avoid liability issues.
When Immediate Repair Is Required
You should never drive if:
- The damage blocks your view of the road.
- The glass is at risk of collapsing inward.
- Sharp edges are exposed where a window is shattered.
- Weather exposure could damage electronics or upholstery.
In these cases, schedule a repair right away or arrange a tow to a professional shop.
Safe Options for Temporary Protection
If you must move your vehicle before repair, use clear plastic sheeting and tape to cover an open window. This helps keep out debris and weather. However, this is only a short-term solution. The safest choice is to have your glass replaced before driving.
How Speers Auto Glass Can Help
At Speers Auto Glass, we provide same-day emergency mobile auto glass repair and replacement services so you can get back on the road legally and safely.
If you’re not sure whether your glass damage is legal to drive with, call us for a free assessment.
Contact Speers Auto Glass today to schedule fast repairs and avoid fines or safety risks.
Related Posts in This Series
- Insurance Coverage for Auto Glass Repair
- Filing an Insurance Claim for Auto Glass
- Windshield Repair and Vehicle Safety Inspections