If you drive your vehicle regularly, you may eventually end up with a chip or crack on your windshield. Though some damages are minor and don’t require immediate attention, they’ll grow more severe if left unaddressed. Here’s a closer look at how long you can drive with a cracked windshield before needing repairs.

What Factors Determine the Severity of a Crack?

Cracks on your windshield can come in various shapes and sizes, which will determine how to handle them.

• Size: Cracks shorter than six inches or chips smaller than a penny are not severe. That means you can take the risk of driving to the auto glass shop for repairs. However, it may not be safe or legal to drive with longer, more severe cracks. In that case, have your vehicle towed to the shop.

• Damage Extent: Cracks and chips may look harmless, but upon closer inspection, you may notice that the damage has penetrated all the layers of glass in the windshield. In this condition, your windshield is susceptible to shattering upon slight road impacts like potholes and speed bumps. Seek an auto glass specialist for immediate repairs.

• Location: For damages positioned somewhere along the driver’s side of the vehicle, it is hazardous and prohibited to drive with an obstructed field-of-vision. 

Why You Should Get Your Windshield Repaired or Replaced ASAP

In Montana, driving with a damaged windshield that can obstruct the driver’s view is not allowed for safety purposes. Even if you’re driving with a short crack or small chip on your glass, you may get a ticket. Apart from impairing your vision, there are other dangers associated with cracked auto glass.

For one, the glass becomes structurally weaker from the cracks and dings. This problem also increases the likelihood of the roof collapsing during rollover accidents, the windshield shattering from a front-end collision, or even a frontal ejection. Moreover, it can also affect airbag deployment, especially when the damaged windshield is unable to absorb the force.   

Delaying repairs is not cost-effective in the long run. Cracks can spread due to several factors, including dirt, moisture, and changing temperatures. An easy fix can result in expensive repairs if neglected for too long.

It’s never safe to drive with a cracked windshield. If yours is damaged, head over to Flathead Glass Works in Kalispell, MT, right away. Their auto glass repair specialists provide quality work on car windshields, windows, side mirrors, and headlights. Call (406) 752-7870 to set up an appointment for repairs or learn more about them online.