Media post: The Hidden Dangers of Driving with a Broken Windshield
Cracks in your car’s windshield can seem like minor nuisances, but they hide risks that could cost you much more than a repair bill. Imagine heading out on your usual commute, unaware that a small fracture in your windshield has weakened your car’s safety. One sudden jolt, a sharp turn, or even changing weather could turn that tiny crack into a major hazard. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what’s really at stake when you drive 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 are designed to handle impacts differently, which can influence how quickly a crack spreads and compromises visibility.
In Canada, driving with a damaged windshield is subject to penalties and regulations that vary by province, but the overarching principle is that your vehicle must provide a clear and unobstructed view of the road to ensure safety.
Provincial Regulations:
– Ontario: Under the Highway Traffic Act, it’s illegal to drive with a windshield that obstructs the driver’s view. Fines for such infractions 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 impairing include cracks over 300 millimetres long or multiple cracks over 150 millimetres. Violations can result in a $70 fine.
– Alberta: While there’s no explicit law against driving with a cracked windshield, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle that doesn’t provide a clear view of the road. Law enforcement may issue fines or orders to repair if the damage obstructs the driver’s view.
– Quebec: Driving with a windshield that obstructs the driver’s view is prohibited. Fines for such violations are approximately $200.
It’s best to fix a chipped windshield promptly or get a full windshield replacement to maintain safety on the road and comply with regulations.
Dangers of a Cracked Windshield
Beyond legal implications, a damaged windshield can compromise vehicle safety by weakening structural integrity and impairing visibility. Let’s delve into the obvious and overlooked reasons why driving with a cracked windshield is unsafe.
1. Impaired Visibility
A crack in your windshield can distort your view, especially if it’s 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 streetlights, causing glare that further hampers visibility.
2. Compromised Structural Integrity
Your windshield contributes up to 45% of your vehicle’s structural strength in a front-end collision and up to 60% in a rollover. A crack weakens this integrity, making the roof more susceptible to collapse during an accident. This compromise can lead to more severe injuries for occupants.
3. Faulty Airbag Deployment
In many vehicles, the windshield acts as a backstop for passenger-side airbags during deployment. A compromised windshield may not withstand the force of an inflating airbag, causing it to deploy improperly or fail altogether. This malfunction can leave passengers unprotected in a crash.
4. Increased Risk of Ejection
A fully intact windshield helps keep occupants inside the vehicle during a collision. A cracked windshield is more likely to shatter upon impact, increasing the risk of occupants being ejected from the vehicle, which often results in severe injury or fatality.
5. Escalation of 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 exacerbates the risks mentioned above but also leads to more costly repairs or the need for a full car windshield replacement.
6. Distraction to the Driver
A crack can catch your eye, drawing your attention away from the road. Even momentary distractions can lead to missed signals, sudden stops, or unnoticed obstacles, increasing the chance of an accident.
7. Potential for Shattering
While modern windshields are designed to hold together when damaged, a significant crack can compromise this feature. In the event of a collision or even a minor impact, the windshield could shatter, sending glass fragments into the vehicle and causing injury.
8. Moisture and Dirt Penetration
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 the glass. Over time, this damage can necessitate a full windshield replacement.
9. Compromised Defrosting and Defogging
A cracked windshield can interfere with the proper functioning of defrosting and defogging systems. Moisture can seep into the crack, freeze, and expand in cold weather, worsening the crack and reducing the effectiveness of these systems. This impairment can make it harder to defrost your windshield, leading to foggy or frosted windshields that further reduce visibility.
Stay Safe and Road-Ready
A cracked windshield isn’t just a small inconvenience; it’s a serious risk to your safety and your wallet. From obstructing your view to weakening your car’s structure, the dangers are real and preventable. Don’t wait for the crack to grow or for an officer to issue a fine. Take action now—schedule a repair or replacement and drive with confidence, knowing your vehicle is safe and road-ready.
