Cracked windshields are a commonplace problem for drivers in New Orleans. Starting from a tiny dent and spreading out into something much more dramatic, the damage can be catastrophic if left too long – both for you and for your driver’s license.
If you’re wondering how long you can drive around with a cracked windshield, we’re here to help you get to grips with all the facts you need to know to drive safely and legally.
How do windshield cracks appear?
Cracks in your windshield typically appear when an object hits the glass. There are lots of different ways this can happen, from debris on the road to acts of vandalism, but what’s important is finding a fix as quickly as you can!
Can I drive with a cracked windshield?
We would never recommend prolonged periods of driving with a cracked windshield. This presents lots of hazards to your driving since the crack could negatively impact your ability to see the road clearly, which in turn can lead to accidents and unsafe driving.
No matter the size of the crack in your windshield, we encourage you to seek out an expert as quickly as possible to get it fixed.
The reason we suggest getting your windshield fixed quickly is due to both safety and pricing. A minor crack in the windshield is almost always going to be cheaper to repair than a larger one – and smaller areas of damage are also apt to obscure your field of visionless. If you leave it, your windshield damage is likely to grow and expand out further, leaving you out of pocket as well as driving a more dangerous vehicle.
Why do windshield cracks grow?
Just like the causes for them appearing in the first place, there are multiple reasons why that tiny crack in your windshield could expand over time and become a real problem.
Few roads are without bumps, and even the smoothest driving experience can still lead to small vibrations, which encourage cracks in windshields to develop further.
Is it legal to drive with a crack in my windshield?
The legality of driving with a cracked windshield differs from state to state and will be determined by the size and location of the damaged area. Some states actively prohibit driving if you have a damaged windshield, so you could find yourself accidentally breaking the law while trying to keep your car on the road.
Think carefully and critically about both the size and the location of the damage. Does it impact your ability to see clearly? While smaller cracks in a windshield might not obscure your view to a dangerous extent, we would still urge you to get it repaired as quickly as you can to prevent it from becoming more prominent and more troublesome.
When examining the location of your cracked windshield, you’ll need to move faster to get it fixed if it’s located on the driver’s side of your vehicle. For passenger side problems, while still vital to repair, you may be able to wait a little longer and drive without any significant issues in the meantime.
Can i get pulled over in New Orleans for a cracked windshield?
Can all windshield cracks be repaired?
The smaller the crack in your windshield when you take it to get fixed, the more chance there is of saving the original glass. This will also result in a much cheaper repair job than a large-scale replacement.
If your windshield crack has already grown to a more dramatic size, then it’s important not to panic but also to get it fixed as quickly as you can.
For cases where the glass can’t be saved, you can still get an expert to remove the original windshield glass and replace it with new, undamaged glass for a safer driving experience.
We understand that budget-conscious drivers don’t want to spend too much on repairs and replacements, but this is just another reason to see a professional team as quickly as you can. By moving fast as soon as you see some damage, you’ll be able to stay on budget and stay on the road without breaking the law or risking your safety.
At Apex Mobile Auto Glass Repair & Replacement, we’re your fast track, first-class service for speedy repair or placement of your automotive windshields and glass. Call us up, and we’ll come to you throughout New Orleans and the surrounding area. For a direct quote and 15% off, call (504) 421-1105