Windshield Repair: Drive Safely, From Tow to Fix
Has this happened to you? You are driving down the road on a nice sunny day, when suddenly a rock and debris lands on your windscreen. Or, a tiny crack you had just gets worse.
Whether it’s a tiny chip or a large crack, any sort of glass damage can change your nice drive into a stressful situation. That’s when it’s really important to know what to do next. Like, getting your car off the road safely, getting it towed, and finding the right place for windshield repair.
Here’s a simple guide to help you stay calm and get your car back on track.
Why Windshield Damage Shouldn’t Be Ignored: The Safety Risks You Need to Know
Your windshield is more than just a piece of glass. It has an important function in keeping you safer on the road. Here’s how:
- It affects visibility: A small crack in a glass can block your view and make it more difficult to operate a vehicle safely.
- It might affect airbag deployment: A cracked view glass can affect how your airbags deploy when you crash your vehicle.
- It’s against the law in some places: Driving when visibility has been impaired is often illegal in some states, or at the very least dangerous, so you should get it fixed right away.
Quick tip: A small crack you see today could be a big problem tomorrow. Having your windshield repair done timely will prevent further damage and be more cost-effective.
What to Do When Your Windshield Gets Damaged
- Safely pull over: As soon as you observe the damage, safely move your vehicle off the road to avoid the risk of any further issues or accidents.
- Do not drive with considerable damage: The damage may worsen if you drive with a cracked or chipped auto glass, especially on rough roads.
- Temporary protection in winter: If you’re in cold weather, securing the damaged windscreen with plastic or tape is crucial to prevent ice and snow from worsening the crack.
- Call for towing assistance: Call for a tow service to transport your vehicle to an auto glass service. It is the best way to avoid further damage.
Pro Tip: Always have the contact details of a trusted towing service on hand, so you can act quickly when an emergency arises.
How to Choose the Right Auto Glass Service
Following the tow, selecting a reputable windshield repair shop is key to getting back on the road fast and safely:
- Look for certified professionals: Make sure the repair shop is reputable and follows industry standards to guarantee high-quality repairs.
- Consider the repair process: Inquire about their procedure for repairs; should they provide a clear answer to your questions that’s a great sign. But, If they simply say go for glass replacement without the reason, it may be wise to get a second opinion.
- Verify your insurance coverage: Reach out to your insurance provider to determine if the glass repairs are covered under your existing coverage. Many insurance companies offer minor repair coverage at little to no cost.
Tip: Before you proceed to repair the auto glass, make sure to call your insurance company to see if it was a covered repair under your policy. Very often minor repairs could be handled at affordable to no cost.
What Does Windshield Repair Cost?
The repair costs can vary based on a few factors, such as the severity of the damage, the type of glass your vehicle uses, and your location. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay:
| Damage Type | Estimated Cost | Details |
| Small Chip or Crack | $50 – $150 | Most shops can repair minor chips using resin. |
| Medium Crack | $150 – $250 | Cracks between 3–6 inches might still be repairable. |
| Large Crack | $250 – $400 | Anything over 6 inches usually requires replacement. |
| Windshield Replacement | $200 – $1,000+ | Full replacement cost depends on the vehicle model. |
| Insurance Coverage | $0 – $500 | Many insurers cover repair costs, especially for small cracks. |
Beyond the Windshield: Other Glass Issues to Watch For
While the front glass of the vehicle might be your priority, don’t forget that other parts of your vehicle’s glass are also vulnerable to damage.
- Side and rear windows: Extreme weather conditions or debris can cause damage to your side and rear windows, so be sure to check them regularly.
- Choosing durable auto glass: Choose durable materials that can withstand temperature changes and other environmental factors.
Preventing Damage – Simple Tips to Keep Your Windscreen Safe
Here’s how you can minimize the risk of windshield damage and keep your car in great condition:
- Keep your distance from trucks or other vehicles carrying loose debris. They can cause rocks or other objects to fly from their portable or temporary carriers sometimes, striking your car glass.
- Check your wipers for wear and tear and replace them when necessary. Worn-out wipers would drag dirt across your windshield and can worsen possible chip and cracks your glass may have.
- Drive cautiously on gravel roads or potholes. Either will put the auto glass at risk of being damaged. If you can, always drive slowly.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car including plastic sheeting and tape if you need to secure a crack until you get a final fix.
Conclusion
Certainly, damage to the vehicle’s front glass is a pain! But don’t panic! If you know what to do and where to get help, you’ll be on the road again in no time.
The first thing to remember is to act quickly, whether it’s pulling over to a safe location, calling towing service, or taking your vehicle to a reliable shop for an inspection. Acting fast makes a difference.
Windshield repair doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With professional help, you can restore your car’s safety, save money by fixing small cracks early, and prevent further damage from occurring.
