It's probably no surprise that one of the most common types of auto insurance claim is for damage to a windshield. While it can withstand most road debris, it's very easy for a rock to cause a chip when you're driving at higher speeds. While you may not be able to avoid every little nick and ding, a few driving tips can help prevent a more substantial chip that could lead to a crack. 

How to Prevent a Rock Chip in Your Car Windshield

1. Leave Space Between You and the Car in Front

Driving too close to the vehicle in front of you can contribute to a number of problems, including collisions. However, getting too close also puts your windshield at risk of a rock chip. The closer you are, the more likely it is for the debris kicked up by the other car to hit yours. This is especially true if you are behind a large truck or construction vehicle, which kicks up even more debris. If you notice a vehicle is sending a lot of rocks or gravel flying, try to safely pass them as soon as possible to keep your car from getting hit. 

2. Avoid Gravel

It might seem obvious, but not driving on gravel can prevent chips in your windshield. During the colder months, try not to drive on roads that have just been treated with salt and gravel right away—and never follow behind one of the sanding trucks. 

If you can, pull off and wait until the truck has finished the area, or take a different route that allows you to avoid the spray of rocks and sand.

3. Drive Backroads

Highways might be convenient, but it's more common for windshields to become chipped while driving on high-speed roads than on those with less traffic. The combination of the flying debris and the force from your fast-moving car are what creates the chip. 

If you can travel on surface streets, not only will you drive slower, but you're less likely to encounter flying debris than on the highway. 

If you get a rock chip in your windshield, it's possible that the technicians at Auto Glass Experts in Hastings, NE, can repair it without needing to completely replace the glass. If you do need new glass, they can do that too. Call (402) 463-0025 to get a free estimate on windshield chip repairs, and visit the website to learn more about their services and lifetime warranty.