Cracks in your car’s windshield may seem like a minor nuisance, but they hide risks that could cost you far more than the repair bill. Imagine going on a routine commute to work, unaware that a small crack in your windshield is compromising the safety of your vehicle. One sudden jolt, sharp turn, or even a change in weather can turn this tiny crack into a serious hazard. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what’s really at stake when you’re driving with a damaged windshield.
Can I drive with a broken windshield?
Driving with a cracked windshield is generally unsafe and in some cases even illegal. Different types of auto glass resist impacts differently, which can affect how quickly a crack propagates and reduces visibility.
In Canada, driving with a damaged windshield carries penalties and regulations that vary by province, but the general principle is that your vehicle must have a clear, unobstructed view of the road to ensure safety.
Provincial rules:
– Ontario: According to the Road Traffic Act, it is prohibited to drive with a windshield that obscures the driver’s view. Fines for such violations are typically $85.
– British Columbia: The Motor Vehicle Act prohibits operating a vehicle with a windshield that impairs the driver’s vision. Specific defects considered deteriorating include cracks greater than 300 millimeters in length or multiple cracks greater than 150 millimeters in length. Violation may result in a $70 fine.
– Alberta: While there is no express law against driving with a cracked windshield, it is illegal to operate a vehicle that does not provide a clear view of the road. Law enforcement may issue a fine or order repairs if the damage obstructs the driver’s view.
– Quebec: It is prohibited to drive with a windshield that blocks the driver’s view. Fines for such violations are approximately $200.
It’s best to get your windshield chip repaired right away or get a complete windshield replacement to stay safe on the road and stay compliant.
Dangers of a Cracked Windshield
In addition to the legal implications, a damaged windshield can compromise vehicle safety by weakening the structural integrity and reducing visibility. Let’s dive into the obvious and overlooked reasons why driving with a cracked windshield is unsafe.
1. Reduced visibility
A crack in the windshield can distort your view, especially if it is in your direct line of sight. This distortion can make it difficult to see pedestrians, other vehicles, or obstacles, increasing the likelihood of an accident. At night, cracks can refract light from oncoming headlights or street lights, causing glare that further impairs visibility.
2. Violation of structural integrity
Your windshield provides up to 45% of your vehicle’s structural strength in a frontal crash and up to 60% in a rollover. A crack weakens this integrity, making the roof more prone to collapse during an accident. This compromise can result in more serious injuries to passengers.
3. Incorrect deployment of the airbag.
In many vehicles, the windshield acts as a stop for the passenger side airbags during deployment. A damaged windshield may not be able to withstand the force of airbag inflation, causing it to not deploy properly or fail completely. This malfunction can leave passengers unprotected in the event of an accident.
4. Increased risk of expulsion
A completely intact windshield helps keep occupants inside the vehicle during a collision. A cracked windshield is more likely to shatter on impact, increasing the risk of occupants being ejected from the vehicle, often resulting in serious injury or death.
5. Increased damage
What starts as a small chip can quickly spread into a larger crack due to temperature changes, road vibrations or further impacts. This progression not only increases the risks mentioned above, but also leads to more expensive repairs or the need to completely replace the car windshield.
6. Driver distraction
A crack can be noticeable and distract attention from the road. Even short-term distractions can lead to missed signals, sudden stops or unnoticed obstacles, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
7. Possibility of destruction
Although modern windshields are designed to remain intact when damaged, a significant crack can compromise this function. In the event of a collision or even a minor impact, the windshield may break, sending glass shards into the vehicle and causing injury.
8. Penetration of moisture and dirt
Cracks allow moisture and dirt to seep between the layers of the windshield. This infiltration can lead to delamination where the layers separate, causing further visual distortion and weakening of the glass. Over time, this damage may require complete windshield replacement.
9. Violation of defrosting and preventing fogging
A cracked windshield can prevent the defrost and defog systems from functioning properly. Moisture can seep into the crack, freeze and expand in cold weather, worsening the crack and reducing the effectiveness of these systems. This deterioration can make it difficult to defrost the windshield, resulting in fogged or fogged windshields, further reducing visibility.
Be safe and ready for the road
A cracked windshield isn’t just a minor inconvenience; This is a serious risk to your security and your wallet. From obstructing your vision to weakening your vehicle’s structure, the dangers are real and preventable. Don’t wait for the crack to grow or for the officer to issue a ticket. Take action now – schedule repairs or replacements and drive with confidence knowing your vehicle is safe and road-ready.
