The front glass of your car is called the windshield. This glass helps you see the road clearly and protects you from wind, rain, dust, and stones. Sometimes, the windshield breaks suddenly while driving, after an accident, or because of a small stone. And when it happens, people usually panic or feel scared while being on the road.
Some people keep driving even after their windshield is damaged, which is not safe for the driver, passengers, or others on the road. In such situations, you should stay calm and safe, stop the car right away, and check the damage carefully. If the damage is too much, you should not drive your car even a mile further.
But if there is not much damage in your car’s windshield, you can consider driving it to the nearest auto glass repair shop in Abbotsford. To learn more about what to do if your windshield breaks while driving, read this blog by Aim Auto Glass, till the end, as it contains vital information on the same in simple and clear language.
Common Reasons a Windshield Breaks
Although windshields are made of strong glass, they can still break due to numerous reasons. And getting it repaired as soon as possible should be your first priority. Doing so helps you stay safe and comfortable while driving. Here are the most common reasons a windshield breaks:
- Small stones and rocks can hit the windshield while driving.
- Even a small accident is enough to break the front glass of your car.
- Exposure to extreme temperatures (hot and cold) can crack your windshield.
- Roads with holes can cause shaking, putting pressure on the glass, and cracking it.
In short, there are many reasons why your windshield breaks while driving or even when being stationary. Get it fixed as soon as possible to ensure everyone’s safety and keep your car roadworthy.
Read Also -Why Does a Windshield Break?
Stay Calm If Your Windshield Breaks
If your windshield breaks while you are driving on the road, do not panic or make sudden moves. Instead, hold the steering wheel firmly and slow down your car gently. Avoid braking hard or turning suddenly. You can also turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers that there is something wrong with your vehicle.
Then, you can move your car to the side of the road safely in a safe place away from traffic to check if you or your passengers are injured. You have to make sure that everyone inside the car is okay. Avoid touching broken glass with your bare hands, as sharp glass can cause serious cuts. Also, do not continue driving if visibility is poor.
Check the Windshield Damage Carefully
Once you have stopped at the side of the road, look at the windshield closely to determine the intensity of the damage. You have to see if the glass is shattered or just cracked and check if pieces of glass are falling off. Also, make sure the crack is not blocking your view, and there is enough visibility.
If you cannot see the road clearly, do not drive your vehicle; get it towed to the nearest auto glass repair shop instead. However, if the damage is small, make sure it is not spreading, and go straight to the nearest repair shop. Moreover, you should avoid bumps and rough roads if possible.
Temporary Fixes You Can Do
Though there is nothing much you can do if your windshield breaks while driving, you can definitely do some temporary fixes to ensure the damage doesn’t spread. Here is the list of temporary fixes you can do:
- If the crack is small, put clear tape over it to stop dirt or moisture from getting in.
- If you must drive to a repair shop, go slowly while avoiding sudden stops or bumps.
While we are talking about the fixes you can do while being stranded on the road, it’s essential to take a look at the don’ts. Here is what you should avoid doing if your windshield breaks:
- Do not push or hit the damaged area, as it can make the crack bigger.
- Do not use DIY glue or liquids if unsure, as it might worsen the damage.
To get your car back on the road as soon as possible, you should consider taking it to the nearest auto glass repair shop in Abbotsford. Their technicians can assess the damage and fix it as soon as possible!
On the Final Note
When the front glass (windshield) of a car breaks while driving, most people panic and feel scared, but staying calm helps you make the right decisions. Your first priority should always be your safety and the safety of your passengers. You should never ignore damage and keep driving, even if it looks small.
It is because small cracks spread quickly and turn into a bigger problem. Also, driving with a damaged windshield can reduce visibility and increase accident risk. If the damage is large and is reducing your visibility, take your vehicle straight to the auto glass repair shop in Abbotsford.
FAQs
Q. Can you drive with a cracked windshield?
Yes, you can drive, but only if the crack is small and does not block your view.
Q. What should I do first if my windshield breaks while driving?
You should stay calm, slow down, and pull over safely if your windshield breaks while driving.
Q. Can a small crack get worse over time?
Yes, a small crack can spread quickly if not repaired. If there is a small crack in your windshield, get it repaired as soon as possible.
