Whether driving down the road or parked near a construction site, falling debris can put you at risk of getting a cracked windshield. Even if you have a small crack or chip in your windshield, it’s important you handle it right away.
Having a damaged windshield can obstruct your view of the road and put you in harm’s way. So, if you do have a chipped or cracked windshield, what do you do next? Keep reading to know what to do if you have a cracked windshield to ensure you’re safe on the road.
Inspect the Damage
Auto glass is designed to be tough and withstand most objects that hit your windshield. However, if your windshield is continuously impacted by falling debris, it can weaken over time. When you notice a chip or crack in your window, find a safe area to pull over and inspect the glass. Pay attention to the length and depth of the damage. This will help you determine if your glass is compromised and if you need a replacement.
Prevent Your Window from Cracking More
After inspecting your windshield, you should determine if the car is safe to drive. If the chip or crack obstructs your view, you should contact roadside assistance for help. However, if you’re safe to go, prevent further damage by staying out of extreme temperatures and leaving certain objects, such as hand sanitizer and carbonated drinks, out of your car as they could explode—possibly damaging your windshield even more.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
If you have auto insurance, you should contact them to see if they can assist you in paying for the window repair or replacement. Talk to your insurance agent to walk you through the steps of filing a claim. However, if you don’t have insurance, you will most likely have to pay in full, and an auto glass company can walk you through the process.
Repair or Replace Your Car Window
After talking to an insurance company or auto glass company of choice, it’s time to get your window repaired or replaced. Depending on your car type and the damage, the repair could take a few minutes to a couple of hours. You may be able to cut down on the overall cost if you go with the auto glass company your insurance provider recommends.
Cracks and chips in your windshield can be dangerous because they can reduce your visibility. Prevent these dilemmas by watching your surroundings and handling the problem as soon as possible. If you live in California and need affordable automobile insurance, we’re here to help. Saferoad Insurance Services caters to those in the state of California, and our main priority is to keep our drivers safe. Contact us today for a quote.