Have you ever noticed a crack in your windshield but said to yourself, “I’ll deal with it another day”, and you continue to put it off for a while? It’s safe to say we have all been in a position where we just didn’t feel like dealing with something in that moment but over time we begin to forget about it.

When it comes to your auto glass, this is something that you shouldn’t ignore or “forget about”. A damaged windshield should receive attention immediately after you see a chip or crack. There are so many things that could cause the damage to get worse including the crack to spread or the impact point could get hit again.
With all of these facts to consider, here are the 4 downsides to ignoring auto glass damage and why you should always consider repairing the damages quickly and efficiently.

1.) Cracks Could Expand

When you first spot a chip on your windshield, you should understand that it has the potential of spreading. Slowly or rapidly. Overtime, that chip that was once very small and minimal could potentially turn into a large crack across your windshield. That small chip could even turn into a spider web like crack. When this happens, you will almost always need a replacement unless you plan on getting rid of your vehicle.

The reason you should consider giving immediate attention to even just a small chip is because the spread of a crack can be dangerous when you’re behind the wheel if the crack is blocking your vision in any way. Always remember that any damage should receive attention, no matter how minor you think it may be.

2.) Legal Vulnerability

A crack can easily obstruct your view when driving but you may think differently. Having a long crack across the driver side windshield may not be a problem for you, but it is a huge no-no with law enforcement. A huge part of their job is to ensure everyone on the road is driving safely and responsibly. If you are driving around with a cracked windshield and it is significantly noticeable, you are at risk of being a huge target to law enforcement on the road.

If you decide you want to wait to fix your cracked windshield, check your local laws to make sure you aren’t at risk of being ticketed for not taking proper care of your vehicle. In Florida, you cannot drive with cracked or damaged windshield glass in Florida. It’s against the law and worth a ticket if your vision is impaired or your crack or damage is more than six inches.

3.) You Could Compromise Your Airbags

Did you know your windshield is a very important part of your airbag system? Your airbag system actually uses the windshield to brace when they deploy. Without the support of the windshield, the airbags could potentially fail to cushion passengers in the vehicle during impact. By leaving your windshield damaged, you’re only putting yourself at risk of unintended consequences.

Replacing or repairing your windshield is so simple. The only way to avoid irreplaceable losses is to not let it get away from you. When you see a chip or crack, bring attention to it right away. Anything can happen at any given moment including accidents while on the road. Protect yourself and potential passengers by taking the steps to driving safe and responsibly and repair any damages around your vehicle.

4.) Structure Can Be Weakened

The windshield is designed to withstand immense pressure without damaging it but if you already have a few chips in your glass, your windshield is at risk of notwithstanding impact. This means that if you are driving around with a chipped or cracked windshield and you collide head on with something, you are in danger of injuring those in the car and yourself. It’s extremely important to be aware of this and understand the risks you are taking by driving your vehicle with a damaged windshield.

How Auto Glass Doc Can Help

Now that you are aware of the downsides of avoiding a damaged windshield it’s time to stop putting it off and take your vehicle into your local auto shop. It doesn’t hurt to explore your options and take care of the damages.

Auto Glass Doc offers a variety of services including windshield repair and replacements. Don’t put off getting your auto glass fixed longer than you need to. Auto Glass Doc will help you every step of the way to have your vehicle looking brand new. Taking auto glass damage seriously is something to start considering when driving and we are here to help you implement that.