If your windshield or side window has a crack or break, you might wonder if it’s safe to keep driving. While some damage may look minor, any compromised glass can put you and your passengers at risk. Here’s why you should always take auto glass damage seriously.
How Cracks Affect Structural Integrity
Your vehicle’s windshield does more than keep out the wind—it also helps support the roof structure in a rollover. According to NHTSA safety guidelines, automotive glazing is designed to provide structural reinforcement during an accident. Even a small crack weakens this support and can reduce the effectiveness of your airbag deployment.
Side and rear windows are made of tempered glass. While they don’t provide the same structural support, broken or missing side glass increases your risk of ejection in a collision and makes your vehicle more vulnerable to theft.
Visibility and Driving Hazards
Cracks and chips often distort light, creating glare and reflections that make it harder to see. Damage in your line of sight can obscure the road, especially at night or during storms. Even a small chip can refract headlights or sunlight and cause dangerous blind spots.
Transport Canada emphasizes that damage interfering with the driver’s view can lead to inspection failures and legal penalties. You can learn more about these requirements in their defect investigations guide.
Legal Considerations
Driving with a cracked windshield is illegal in many provinces if the damage impairs visibility or compromises safety. Law enforcement may issue fines if a crack obstructs your view or if the glass poses a hazard to other drivers. Insurance companies may also deny claims if you fail to repair known damage.
Even if your vehicle passes inspection temporarily, a crack can spread without warning and leave you stranded or unsafe.
What You Should Do
If you notice a crack or break, act quickly to minimize the risk:
- Photograph the damage so you can monitor changes.
- Avoid slamming doors or making sudden temperature changes.
- Cover broken side or rear windows with plastic to keep out rain and debris.
- Contact a professional auto glass company for an assessment.
At Speers Auto Glass, we provide comprehensive windshield repair and replacement services, as well as emergency mobile repairs if you need help on the road.
When You Must Replace
Replacement becomes necessary in situations such as:
- Cracks longer than 6 inches.
- Damage in the driver’s line of sight.
- Multiple chips forming a web pattern.
- Any shattered or missing glass.
Driving with severely compromised glass is never safe. The sooner you address damage, the safer you’ll be.
Contact Speers Auto Glass today to schedule a free assessment and keep your vehicle roadworthy and secure.
Related Posts in This Series
- The Dangers of Ignoring Auto Glass Damage
- Types of Windshield Cracks and Chips Explained
- How Fast Can a Crack Spread in Your Windshield?