Cracks on a windshield may go unnoticed for a while, but it is not something that can be neglected. A simple crack can prove to be very risky for both the driver and passenger in a car. A windscreen protects the occupants of a car from nature’s elements while supporting the structural integrity of an automobile. Any damage to this important part could affect the car’s safety and performance so much.
Vision Impairment
Vision impairment is one of the major issues with having a cracked windshield. When the windshield is cracked, it may become unclear for a driver to estimate road dangers. This greatly increases the risk of accidents, especially when driving at high speeds or in poor weather. A slight breach results in dazzling or refraction of light, which affects the proper visibility of other cars, passengers, and road objects. Not only does this visual deficit affect passengers in the vehicle, but pedestrians and other drivers on the road are also at risk. This is of particular concern because pedestrian deaths have been on the rise across the country, including cities like Oakland, California which saw 52 pedestrian deaths and injuries in 2022.
Additionally, a minor crack on the windshield can spread and cover the entire surface if ignored. This is because the windshield consists of laminated glass, which comprises two layers of glass and a middle thick layer in between. As the crack forms, it weakens the outer layer of the glass, and any impact or pressure will cause it to break. Consequently, the crack will open wider, making it more difficult and costly to remediate. In some instances, replacement of a cracked windshield is inevitable and may end up costing thousands.
Shattered Windshield
However, a graver outcome of a cracked windshield is that the crack penetrates all layers of glass. This would occur if the initial crack doesn’t get fixed and is still subjected to force or impact. Such incidents result in a complete shattering of the windshield, hence exposing travelers to external elements such as flying debris or weather conditions. This not only exposes the driver and his passengers to injuries but also increases traffic accidents. It is also important to mention that a windshield provides up to 60% structural support of the vehicle roof and a cracked or shattered window breaches this support, making the entire car more vulnerable in regard to crashes.
Distracting the Driver
Besides obstructing vision and undermining structural support, a cracked windshield will also let the winds seep into the vehicle. This can be a large hindrance to the driver, and it becomes difficult for him/her to communicate with other passengers. Wind noise can also impact the driver’s ability to detect emergency sirens, honking, and other critical sounds on the street. Additionally, cracked windshields can also cause air and water leaks that are uncomfortable to the occupants, in addition to spoiling the vehicle interior. This can also result in the formation of mold and other pathogens that threaten air quality within a car.
In other instances, there may also be violations and charges or payment in the occurrence of a cracked windshield. Therefore, any crack or chip on the windshield should be mended immediately by an authorized auto glass technician. The professional repair not only makes the windshield structurally sound but also restores clarity and strength to the glass.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a chipped windshield is an emergency that should be treated likewise. This is one of the threats that it may pose to a driver, passengers, and other road users. Even the smallest disorganization in vision leads to accidents and wounds. Other implications of a bad windshield include poor structural strength, an accentuated drone, and air as well as water leaks. It is very important that in order to ensure the safety of any vehicle, all chips and cracks on a windshield be repaired or replaced as soon as possible by a professional. Remember that safety starts with a clear and unblocked windscreen.
