Many people who have a cracked or chipped windshield might view it as a mere inconvenience -- minor cosmetic damage that can wait to be repaired. However, this is not the case. Materials used in modern vehicles have significantly improved overall safety, but even slight damage to a windshield poses a potentially serious safety hazard.
Damage to auto glass can obstruct a driver's view of the road. A small chip or crack may be in an out of the way place at first, but left to its own devices, it can spread. This puts not only the driver, but also other motorists and pedestrians at risk.
In the unfortunate event of an accident, a windshield that has already been compromised is a serious threat to the safety of both the driver and the passengers. If damage is already present, the glass is more likely to shatter during impact. This results in one less barrier between passengers and the road during a crash.
This concern is compounded by the fact that modern windshields are an important part of the structural integrity of the vehicle. Cracked auto glass means that the car's structure is weaker and less resilient to impacts. Particularly if the car flips, damaged glass may not be strong enough to prevent the roof, and the passengers inside, from being crushed.
If the potential safety concerns aren't enough to send you off to the repair shop, it's important to note that driving with a cracked or chipped windshield may be illegal in your area, resulting in a costly citation and a mark against your driving record. Repair can be cheaper than a ticket, and involves a lot less hassle. In some states, citations for damaged windshields, among other vehicle equipment, could require a court visit to provide proof of repair. You may still find yourself paying a fine, even after the necessary repairs are completed.
In the event of auto glass damage, check your insurance to see if repair or replacement is covered. Small chips and cracks can often be repaired by professionals, restoring your vehicle to safety at lower cost with less hassle. This is another good reason to get slight damage repaired quickly, as it can save you the cost of having to replace the whole windshield later.
While there are many do-it-yourself repair kits, these are not recommended. Cheaper materials and inexpert application may not fully repair the problem and can impact visibility. Likewise, full replacement requires specialized tools and knowledge. A bad repair job is a terrible safety hazard and can cause water leakage that could damage your car's interior. Both repair and replacement should only be done by a professional auto glass company.
A reputable auto glass repair shop will be able to determine if the windshield needs to be repaired or replaced, and will do the job right to restore your car's safety and structural integrity. Many professional auto glass companies can provide OEM quality replacement and repair at a lower cost than a dealership. Often, they can travel to your location and complete the repair or replacement on site. With the reasonable rates, convenience and professional standards of auto glass companies, there's no reason not to get that pesky and potentially hazardous chip or crack taken care of.
Author Resource:
If you have a cracked or damaged windshield, it's worth your time to contact GlassMax Auto and Truck Glass. With many convenient New Jersey locations and mobile services that can come right to your door, their certified installation specialists use the latest repair techniques. They install only DOT-certified glass furnished by OEM quality manufacturers. Powered by SEO 2.0 Services
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