What to Do When Your Windshield Cracks While Driving: Safety Steps and Repair Tips

Stay Calm and Focused

When a windshield crack occurs while you’re driving, it can be shocking, especially if the crack appears suddenly. The first and most important step is to stay calm and keep your focus on the road. Sudden movements or reactions could lead to an accident, so keep both hands on the wheel, remain aware of your surroundings, and take deep breaths if you feel startled. Staying calm will help you make better decisions and allow you to handle the situation safely.

Remember that not every windshield crack poses an immediate threat. Many small cracks or chips are manageable, and by staying calm, you can assess the situation more effectively.

Keep Your Eyes on the Road

It can be tempting to examine the crack immediately, but the most important thing to do is to keep your eyes on the road. Avoid looking directly at the crack, especially if it’s located in your line of sight. Continually glancing at the crack can distract you from driving safely. Instead, make a mental note of its location and size, and plan to check it in detail once you’ve reached a safe stopping point.

If the crack is in your field of vision, adjust your posture slightly to maintain a clear view of the road without letting the damage distract you. Keeping your focus on driving helps you stay in control and minimizes the risk of an accident.

Reduce Your Speed

After a windshield crack appears, consider reducing your speed, especially if you’re on a busy or high-speed road. Slowing down reduces the impact of wind pressure on the windshield and lowers the chance of the crack expanding rapidly. Moving at a moderate speed also allows you to manage the situation more safely, particularly if you need to pull over soon.

If you’re driving on a highway or fast-moving road, gradually reduce your speed by easing off the gas pedal. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this sudden action could worsen the crack or cause other drivers to react abruptly, increasing the risk of an accident.

Find a Safe Place to Pull Over

Once it’s safe to do so, find a safe place to pull over and inspect the damage. Look for a designated rest area, a parking lot, or a quiet side street. If you’re on a highway, exit if possible, as pulling over on the shoulder can be risky. Take extra caution to use your indicators and check your mirrors before pulling over, especially in high-traffic areas.

After finding a safe spot, turn on your hazard lights to let other drivers know that you’re parked due to a potential issue. Hazard lights increase visibility and help ensure your safety as you inspect the crack.

Inspect the Damage Carefully

Once you’re safely parked, take a closer look at the crack. Check its size, location, and shape. Small chips or short cracks may be manageable for continued driving, but large or spreading cracks may require immediate attention. Inspect if the crack is deep or if there are multiple cracks branching out. If the crack reaches the edge of the windshield or obstructs your view significantly, it could indicate a structural weakness.

Assessing the damage will help you determine the next steps. If the crack seems extensive or affects your visibility, it may not be safe to continue driving, and you should consider calling for roadside assistance or arranging for repairs.

Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes

Extreme temperature changes can make windshield cracks worse. If you’re parked in the hot sun, consider moving to a shaded area if possible, as heat can cause the crack to spread. Similarly, avoid blasting the air conditioning directly onto the windshield, as this sudden change in temperature can worsen the damage. Gradual temperature changes are less likely to affect the crack and may help keep it from spreading.

If you’re in a situation where temperature control is necessary, adjust the settings gradually to prevent further stress on the glass.

Determine If It’s Safe to Continue Driving

Based on the size and location of the crack, you’ll need to decide if it’s safe to continue driving. Small cracks or chips away from your line of sight might be manageable, allowing you to drive to a nearby repair shop. However, if the crack is long, growing, or directly in your line of sight, it may be too dangerous to keep driving.

Driving with a cracked windshield can be risky, especially if it compromises your visibility. Consider erring on the side of caution and seeking immediate repair if there is any doubt about the windshield’s stability.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

If the crack is severe or if you need assistance with repairs, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider. Many insurance policies cover windshield repair or replacement, especially if the damage is caused by an accident or road debris. When you contact your insurer, they can guide you on how to proceed and may recommend repair shops that they partner with.

Some insurance providers offer free windshield repairs with no deductible, so it’s worth checking your policy details. Handling the insurance claim early can make the repair process easier and less costly.

Schedule a Repair as Soon as Possible

Even if the crack seems manageable, it’s important to schedule a repair as soon as possible. Windshield cracks can grow over time due to vibrations, temperature changes, and other driving conditions. Small cracks that could have been repaired may eventually require a full windshield replacement if left untreated.

Many auto repair shops offer quick repairs for small cracks, often completed within an hour. By addressing the crack promptly, you can ensure your windshield remains structurally sound and avoid more expensive repairs in the future.

Consider Mobile Repair Services

If you’re unable to reach a repair shop or if the crack makes driving unsafe, consider using a mobile repair service. Many auto glass repair companies offer mobile services where technicians come to your location and fix the crack on-site. Mobile repair services provide convenience and can be especially helpful if the crack is severe or if you’re stranded in an unfamiliar area. Additionally, after your repair, following windshield care tips after replacement can help maintain the durability of your new glass and prevent future issues.

Choosing a mobile service can also save you time, as the repair is completed on the spot without requiring you to drive with a compromised windshield.