January 7, 2019

Is It Safe to Drive Around with a Cracked Windshield? The Answer Should Be Obvious

Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

Windshields serve an important purpose for drivers and passengers. They are designed to protect you from debris, dust, snow, and UV radiation.

With this in mind, what happens if your windshield suddenly shows cracks? Is it safe to drive around with a cracked windshield?

As much as we don’t want it to happen, there would always be circumstances leading to a cracked or chipped windshield. A single rock that hits your windshield can already compromise its structural integrity, making it less safe for you and your passengers. Although it may not immediately pose as a serious threat to people inside the car, it’s still important that you have it inspected right away, especially if the crack is quite huge.

Here are frequently asked questions on this subject and the answers to them:

• How long can I drive with a cracked windshield?

While it’s not extremely dangerous to be driving around with a damaged windshield, it’s best that you have it fixed as soon as possible. Sure, a small crack may seem like something you shouldn’t be worried about, but it will eventually grow. Once you notice a growing crack, it’s time for you to look for an auto glass company.

• Can a cracked windshield shatter?

Unfortunately, yes. You should know that there are certain factors that lead to such.  A windshield crack, regardless of its size, tends to spread as the glass expands due to factors like changes in temperature, particles entering the crack, the pressure applied to the glass, or any object hitting the glass. The longer you ignore the crack, the worse its condition gets. Cracks create weak points and if left unattended, you’re making room for potential dangers.

However, the good news is that all windshields are laminated, which means that the entire glass will not collapse into the driver’s seat or separate from the frame when it is punctured. Windshields are also held securely by adhesives, which are meant to prevent leaks and glass movement.

• Is it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield?

It depends on the state you live in. Each state implements a set of laws and rules when it comes to driving with a cracked windshield. Learn about your state’s policy on cracked windshields here.

• How do I deal with a cracked or shattered windshield?

You have two options: repair it or replace it. Small cracks often only require repairing, whereas you’ll need windshield replacement with large ones. We recommend you talk to your trusted mechanic immediately to save you from additional trouble.

Get Rid of a Damaged Vehicle for a Worthy Cause

Photo by Алесь Усцінаў under Pexels License

If you own a vehicle with a dangerously cracked windshield and some other defective parts, it may be time to think of replacing it with a new one. Safety is and always will be the topmost concern of all motorists.

Moreover, a damaged vehicle can become a financial burden. Selling it might only hurt your wallet even more. However, by simply donating that vehicle to us at Veteran Car Donations, you’ll not anymore be tempted to take risks—financially or otherwise—using that vehicle. We will take that vehicle off your hands quickly and at zero cost to you. You’ll even get a maximum tax deduction based on the selling price or your vehicle or its fair market value once we sold it at auction.

The most impactful result of your vehicle donation though will be the life-transforming benefits it will give to the struggling veterans in your community. These are the former members of our military who are now grappling with service-connected disabilities, physical and mental health problems, inability to find jobs, and homelessness due to poverty and lack of support.

Your charitable contribution will enable these veterans to receive mortgage-free and specially adapted homes, free physical and mental health care services, educational scholarships, career development, employment opportunities, financial assistance, and many other benefits.

Let’s always be mindful that these courageous men and women fought for us and risked their lives to defend our freedoms and protect our nation’s security. As such, they fully deserve all the help we can give them.

For more information on our car donation program, check out our FAQs page. For inquiries, you can call our toll-free 24/7 hotline 877-594-5822 or send us a message online.

You can donate to Veteran Car Donations by either calling us or filling out our online donation form. We accept vehicle donations wherever you are in the United States since we have car donation programs in all 50 states.

Be Safe, Not Sorry—Donate that Clunker Now!

Is it safe to drive around with a cracked windshield? The answer to this question must be obvious to you by now. Even a small crack in this most vital safety feature of your car could lead to something highly regrettable. If you have a vehicle where you feel your safety is not assured, why still use it? Call us at 877-594-5822 and we’ll assure you of the highest standard of service and your share of rewards including your tax incentives when you donate that vehicle to us at Veteran Car Donations.

Last Updated: March 8th, 2023