If your windshield gets hit by a rock, it does not mean panic time. Some minor chips and cracks are simply fixed. Otherwise, if ignored, chips and cracks can even put your life at risk. However, larger cracks or a complete break might call for replacement.
Contact a professional autoglass service after assessing the damage yourself. Even if you deem the damage very minor, then you should also consult a professional because they alone can determine when a repair may be necessary, or a simple replacement is due. This can prevent dangerous complications in the future. Many glass repair companies offer mobile services. This allows the professional to come directly to you. This is a step-by-step guide on what to do in case you experience a stone hitting your windshield.
- Different Types of Windshield damage
- Steps you can take immediately
- Insurance Considerations
- How to Reduce the Chances of Windshield Damage
- You protect your windshield with a Windshield Protection Plan
How to Evaluate Damage from a Rock-Chipped Windshield
The first step would be evaluating the total damage done by the rock. In most cases, debris and rocks can cause a lot of damage to a windshield.
There are various types of windshield damage
Here are some common types damage you may see after an object hits your windshield:
Chipping: The marks are small and circular. Although a windscreen chip appears small, it may compromise the structural integrity and should be repaired immediately.
Chips: Chips are smaller than cracks and are usually caused by larger rocks or impacts. The cracks can be of varying lengths and eventually compromise the integrity. If the crack is not too long (less than three inches), it can be repaired. However, longer cracks require that you replace your windshield.
Bull’s Eye: A bull’s eye is an object that looks like a target. The dark spot on the surface is the result of a direct hit. Bull’s-eye damage can usually be repaired.
The Star Break is characterized by short, radial arcs that radiate from the central impact point. The pattern can be a bit like a starburst and the size can also vary. The severity and location of the damage will determine how to proceed. In some cases, star break damage can even be repaired.
Combination Breaks: Combination breaks are a combination of different types of windshield damages, including chips and cracks. The extent and type damage will determine whether this damage can even be repaired.
Edge Crack: An edge crack is a damage that occurs near the edge of your windshield. Edge cracks can be more difficult to repair and compromise the structural integrity. Most of the time, a replacement windshield is likely to be the best solution.
The Immediate Steps for Window Repair
If a rock were to hit your windshield, take immediate safety precautions to ensure your safety as well as others in the other vehicles. You will be certain that the integrity of your automobile structure is still intact.
Follow these immediate steps:
Assess Damage Assess the damage right away. Check for chip or crack area or any otherwise compromised area. If you see your windshield, it is more severely damaged with its obstruction of clear vision, try pulling over to a good, safe parking place.
Avoid Distractions Avoid distractions while driving. For safety, keep your eyes on the road and ensure safe driving conditions.
Keep a safe following distance Keep more distance from the car ahead of you. That reduces your probability of contacting debris spewed out of other cars by their tires and wheels.
Avoid Sudden Changes in Temperature : Do not allow the broken glass of the windshield to be exposed to sudden changes in temperature, such as while cooling the car with air conditioning on a hot or a cold day. Extreme temperature fluctuations can spread the damage.
Schedule repairs Promptly Even if damage appears minor, schedule repair promptly. It is possible to repair small chips, which will prevent them from spreading. This will reduce the need for replacements later.
Protect yourself If the windshield is damaged severely, do not operate the vehicle. Call roadside assistance immediately.
Consult Professionals : Get professionals to come and inspect the damage. Professional autoglass repair services will determine whether the windshield is repairable or needs to be replaced.
Do not attempt to repair extensive damage yourself. Although there are DIY kits for minor windshield cracks, they do not always work. Never attempt to repair extensive damage on your windshield by yourself. Professionals have the right tools and expertise to fix significant windshield problems.
Check your insurance coverage for windshield replacement or repair. Some policies will completely cover the cost of a windshield replacement, at no extra cost to your monthly premium.
Regular maintenance : Do regular car checks to your vehicle, including your windshield, for any potential issues before they grow worse.
Insurance Considerations
You should know what your auto insurance covers as a car owner. This is especially so when dealing with issues such as a cracked or damaged windshield. Therefore, understanding the details of your auto insurance policy is very important because some policies may specifically include coverage for glass. The vast majority of all the comprehensive auto policies cover windshield damages. That way, you need not spend some extra cash out of pocket over the expense required to fix or replace your cracked or even broken windshield.
Contact your insurance company to know more about the coverage. They can guide you on what to do next. For example, they can suggest the best shops for auto glass repair or exactly what you need to do. Some insurance companies have preferred service providers with which they have partnership.
In essence, getting a clear idea about your automobile insurance coverage along with a procedure in case of any damage on your windshield is saving you valuable time and dollars.
Windshield Damage: How to Prevent It
Here are some measures that you could take to lower the probability of the accident occurring and reducing its severity. Here’s what you should do next time you step behind the wheels and avoid hitting the windshield on a rock.
Maintain Safe Distance Behind Other Vehicles: It is essential for trucks or vehicles carrying or moving debris to maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles. It provides a longer reaction time in case debris thrown up or swung out from the rear by other automobiles enters your path.
Do not tailgate construction vehicles: Be careful in or near a construction zone, as well as trucks carrying loose materials. If you keep an appropriate distance from these vehicles, you will significantly reduce the opportunity for debris like rocks to smash into your windscreen.
Drive defensively: Be attentive and alert of your surroundings. Defensive driving includes scanning the road ahead for loose gravel, construction areas, or road shoulders.
Avoid Poorly Maintained Roads. Use roads with good road conditions to minimize your chances of meeting loose debris or gravel. Steer clear of dirt roads whenever possible.
Slow down in Construction Zones: Reduce the speed of your vehicle when driving through construction areas. Slower speeds will give you more time to react and control the vehicle in case of debris.
Windshield Protectants: A windshield protector or coating, once applied to a windshield can significantly strengthen it by increasing resistance towards minor impact hits.
Replace Worn Wiper Blades: Cracks on a windshield may spread due to worn-out or damaged blades. Make sure to replace your wipers regularly to maintain clear visibility and prevent damage.
Check Road Conditions Before Leaving:Check road conditions updates, particularly during bad weather. Knowing about possible hazards will help you plan your route.
Service Pros Auto Glass can help with windshield damage
No method will guarantee that your windshield won’t get damaged. Your local Service Pros Auto Glass offers an Windshield Protect Plan , which comes free with any windshield replacement. The comprehensive package includes unlimited repairs or one glass windshield replacement in the first 12 months after the installation.
Call a professional windshield installer to repair or replace your cracked or chipped windshield. Your local Service Pros Auto Glass can assist you with scheduling for a simple windshield repair or replacement. Schedule an appointment today by calling or online!