Many people don’t realize the windshield is more than just a piece of glass on their cars; it’s an important part of the car and vital for our safety, just like other safety components, like airbags and seatbelts. Driving around with cracked windshields is not only dangerous for you, but it’s also a risk for other drivers on the road. Due to this, it’s also illegal to drive with a cracked windshield in many states. Here are some hazards of driving with a damaged or cracked windshield.

Higher Risk of Accident

Chipper and cracked windshields often obstruct the driver’s view, increasing the probability of getting into a road accident. If your windshield is cracked from the driver’s side, most companies will replace the glass instead or repair it because repaired windshields can also hamper your view.

Structural Integrity of the Car Compromised

A windshield isn’t just protecting you from the dust and debris flying on the road while driving; it’s also supporting the frame of your car and the roof. When the windshield is cracked, its structural integrity is compromised, making it unable to support the car’s frame. In case of an accident, the extent of damage and injuries could be a lot worse if your windshield is already cracked.

Ejection from Vehicle

As per reports, around 10 percent of individuals in the United States don’t wear seatbelts while driving. In case of a collision without a seatbelt, a person can be sent flying out of the car, resulting in deadly injuries. A properly installed and structurally strong windshield can stop people from being ejected from their cars if they aren’t wearing a seatbelt during an accident.

Deployment of Airbags

The deployment of airbags depends on a proper windshield. An airbag is deployed with force, which is why it strikes up against the windshield to reduce the impact and then comes back down to cushion the driver and the passenger. If the windshield is already cracked, the airbag will not bounce back down in time and the windshield will also break prior to the accident, making it more dangerous for the driver/passenger. If your windshield is cracked, repair or replace it with a professional today. AAR Auto Glass has a team of experienced technicians that offer windshield repair and replacement services for the residents of Houston. We can also send our mobile windshield replacement team to your doorstep to replace your windshield in under 30 minutes. We also offer auto glass repair and replacement services. Contact us now for more information.