The Hazards of Driving with a Damaged Windshield

As a vehicle owner, you must understand the value of proper maintenance and regular servicing. Driving with a damaged windshield is one problem that remains commonly ignored. A car’s windshield keeps out dust, pollution, rainwater, and wind apart from playing an essential role in maintaining the structural integrity of the vehicle. Here’s what happens when we fail to address the damage to car windshield on time: 1. Reduced Visibility A well-maintained car windshield offers optimum visibility. When the car glass develops chips or cracks, it hampers the vision of the driver, especially in low light or during bad weather conditions. This increases the risk of a collision or an accident. For that matter, a pitted windshield also causes glares or flashes of blinding light that can momentarily blind the driver, putting the passengers in mortal danger. 2. Compromised Structural Integrity Most importantly, the windshield lends structural integrity to the vehicle. It forms a framework that supports the roof. This means that a car glass prevents the roof from caving during a rollover accident. A chipped or cracked windshield may not be able to perform that function. The laminated glass prevents the windscreen from shattering, which may not be the case if it is already chipped or cracked. 3. Airbag Malfunction The windshield is indispensable in the process of airbag deployment. The airbags protect the passenger from getting injured by hitting the car steering wheel or dashboard in case of an impact or collision. The windscreen is designed as a backstop for the airbag and in turn protect you in case of an accident. A cracked, chipped, or incorrectly installed windshield will cause airbag deployment malfunction. 4. Water Leaks Chipped or cracked windshields often lead to water leaks. Rain water or dew might trickle in and cause damp interiors leading to mould and mildew development. It might even harm the electrical components and the upholstery. Windshield replacement cost should not deter you from getting it replaced since these hazards will slowly but surely impose added expenses. 5. Risk of Ejection The reason we all wear seatbelts when we are in a car is it prevents ejection during a collision or an impact. If you’re not wearing the seatbelt or it malfunctions due to any reason, the windshield that offers the ultimate protection against ejection from the car, which may very prove to be fatal. These points indicate how driving with a damaged windshield can be dangerous. Address windshield damage immediately by visiting the nearest Windshield Experts service centre.