You may often hear how dangerous it is to drive with a cracked or chipped windshield. However, has anyone actually explained why? Not knowing why something is dangerous is often enough for someone to not take it so seriously. Understanding the consequences of driving with a broken windshield can save your life and those of your passengers. Risk #1 – Compromised Structural Stability In addition to protection from the weather, a windshield in perfect condition protects your vehicle from being crushed in an accident. In fact, a windshield contributes to 60% of the structural stability during a rollover, and 45% in a front-end collision. Risk #2 – Increased Risk of Ejection During a collision impact, a broken windshield is not able to fully protect the driver or passengers. If you happen to be in an accident with a damaged windshield, you increase your chances of being ejected from the vehicle. Risk #3 – Incorrect Airbag Deployment Did you know that your airbags rely on a perfectly-working windshield to function at full capacity? That's right, your windshield directly affects other aspects of the vehicle. Risk #4 – It CAN Get Worse Any small crack or chip can turn into a much larger one if left unattended. The easiest way to avoid a major reinstallation is to have minor issues repaired right away. Risk #5 – Decreased Visibility Imagine not being able to properly see your surroundings while driving? Well, a crack in your windshield can cause this. By correcting a broken windshield, you reduce the risk of altering your views and causing an accident. Risk #6 – Decreased Protection A windshield is quite literally your shield against hazardous weather and the elements – i.e., sun, rain, snow, lightning, etc. In addition to weather, the windshield will protect you from insects, animals, bird droppings, rocks, debris, and other potentially dangerous things that often hit your windshield. Risk #7 – DISTRACTION This may sound like a stretch, but it is proven – a crack in your windshield can distract your vision. A single moment of distraction can lead to a detrimental accident. The best way to avoid that is to repair your windshield the first moment you notice a crack or chip. Risk #8 – Glass Shattering Your windshield is quite resilient with a heavy protectant of laminate placed in between the top and bottom layers of glass. Rest assured your windshield will not shatter. However, there are chances the crack would increase in length if not repaired in a timely manner. Risk #9 – A Ticket Yes, you heard that correctly – there are laws surrounding cracked windshields. If a police officer catches you driving with a cracked windshield, they can stop you and give you a citation. A cracked windshield is so dangerous, it's illegal! Risk #10 – Higher Costs of Repair A small chip is a quick, easy, and affordable fix. If you wait for that chip to become a crack (and it will), that may require a full windshield replacement – which will cost you more money. Under no circumstances should you drive with a cracked windshield. It is very dangerous, and any accidents it can and will cause are completely avoidable. Even during social distancing as a result of COVID-19, Glass America has been an essential part of the community. We offer FREE mobile service, allowing you to stay in the safety of your home or workplace while your car receives the repairs it needs. It is as easy as picking up the phone and calling (877) 745-2774 – One Call Does it All!