The windshield is arguably the most important piece of auto glass on your vehicle as it protects against wind, flying objects, and weather while enabling you to see while driving. Windshields also contribute to the structural integrity of the passenger cabin and make it safer to drive. According to Money Geek, U.S. drivers average 14,263 miles of travel every year. That much driving virtually ensures you will have windshield damage sooner or later. When it happens, here is what you should do when you notice a crack or chip in your windshield.

See if State Law Requires a Replacement

A damaged windshield could affect your vision and undermine vehicle safety while driving. Many states have laws that require windshield replacement when a crack reaches a certain length or a chip deeply penetrates the glass. Others might leave it up to a police officer to determine if the damage poses a danger, which could result in a ticket that requires you to fix it or pay a fine. If the damage interferes with your line of sight, state law might require you to replace the windshield. Texas law states that while it is not illegal to drive with a windshield crack, you should make sure it is not obstructing your view.

Have the Damage Inspected

You should take your vehicle to an auto glass repair shop to have a technician inspect it and determine if it can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. Some cracks are small and are located where they won't drastically affect the windshield's strength and integrity. Some chips can be filled and prevent the damage from getting worse. Others, however, may require a replacement to correct the problem and make your vehicle safer to drive.

Repair or Replace the Windshield

If the damage is too bad, the crack is growing, or the damage interferes with your vision, you should have auto glass repair or replacement done to fix it. A small chip might trigger more cracks that could spread across the windshield and create web-like damage to the windshield. If a technician can fix the chip or initial crack soon enough, the windshield might be safe to leave in place. When the damage spreads and affects other parts of the windshield, a repair won't help. You will need to replace the windshield, which your auto insurance might cover.

You can call us at Pro Glass or visit our auto glass repair and replacement shop to learn more. We can fix a windshield chip in 30 minutes or less!