Chances are high that every one of us has experienced windshield damage courtesy of flying pebbles, rocks, plus a host of different airborne debris. At times, we tend to ignore what we think is an inconsequential aesthetic matter and assume that being fined by law enforcement is the worst that could happen! Your accomplished all-time favorite auto glass service, Miracle Auto Glass Company disagrees! We understand the many dangers of cruising with a cracked windshield or any other windshield damage, and we have outlined some of them below.
Lack of Structural Integrity If You’re Involved in a Front-End Collision
When you car has a robust and intact windshield, a high percentage of the force from a front-end collision is transferred to the car’s chassis. Consequently, this decreases the impact of the crash inside the car and safeguards the passengers from the worst of the crash. But if the windshield’s integrity is compromised with cracks and chips and it shatters in a crash, the car’s occupants will face an increased risk of injury.
A Higher Chance of Injury In Case of a Roll-Over Accident
When your windshield’s integrity is intact, it enhances the structural support that prevents the roof from caving in, in case the car rolls. When the glass has cracks, it weakens the windshield, and after the car flips over, it shatters and the roof caves in leading to serious ramifications.
Higher Risk of Being Tossed Outside after an Accident
Say a vehicle’s occupants haven’t fastened their seat belts and an accident occurs. In this case, a well installed windshield without compromised glass will prevent them from being tossed out of the vehicle. On the flip side, a windshield with cracks or chips will shatter on impact and deny the occupants the much-needed protection.
Ineffective Deployment of Airbags
In this tech-savvy era of modern autos, windshields are crucial components of correct deployment of passenger side airbags. When the airbag is deployed after an auto collision, the windshield acts as the backstop that makes it possible for the airbag to deploy toward the passenger.
Keep in mind that the great force of an airbag will most likely shatter a windshield with chips and cracks. If this occurs, the airbag will likely inflate right through the gap, leaving the passenger without the protection of an intact windshield or airbag.
Now you know the consequences of driving with a cracked windshield. If your car has this issue, however slight, talk to us at Miracle Auto Glass Company for repairs and replacement. We are just a phone call away, and who knows, it might just be the thing that saves your life!