How to Deal with a Broken Car Windshield
Any damage caused to the car’s windshield is a safety hazard and needs immediate attention as it can jeopardize the safety of the driver and other people in the vehicle.
A car’s windshield provides a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead and protects the occupants and the car’s interiors from dust, debris, rain, and other outside elements while driving. Therefore, any damage caused to the car’s windshield is a safety hazard and needs immediate attention as it can jeopardize the safety of the driver and other people in the vehicle.
If the windshield is damaged due to an accident or flying debris, fix it as soon as possible. A broken windshield is dangerous. Here are the steps to take if the car’s windshield breaks:
Check on the vehicle’s occupants
The first thing to do is to pull off the roadway and ensure everyone is safe and unharmed. Fortunately, car manufacturers use laminated glass for car windshields, which makes it more resistant to shattering and helps provide maximum safety to the occupants in the event of a collision. In addition, even if the crash is severe, which causes the glass to shatter, the middle layer prevents the shards of broken glass from causing injury to the driver or passengers.
Assess the damage
After ensuring everyone’s safety, examine the car to determine the extent of the damage. The laminated glass comprises two layers separated by a thin layer of polyvinyl-butyral, which acts as glue. When the windshield is damaged, it is usually the outer glass. Whether the windshield is cracked, chipped, or extensively damaged will determine if it needs a complete replacement or if repairs would suffice.
Avoid driving
A broken windshield can make it difficult to see the road while driving and allow outside elements to blow into the car. The extent of the damage will determine if it is safe to drive the vehicle to a nearby auto glass repair or replacement shop or call an auto transport company to transport it. If the damage is more severe than a few cracks, it is best to avoid driving and have a tow company transport the car to the nearest shop.
Handle the broken glass carefully
If the situation demands handling broken glasses before the car can be towed to a glass repair shop, it is important to proceed cautiously. Use gloves to pick up glass pieces to avoid injury, and dispose of them responsibly to prevent injuring others.
Vacuum and dispose of the loose glass pieces
If small glass pieces are scattered throughout the car, use a high-powered vacuum to clean them carefully. Then, repeat the process and vacuum the car thoroughly to prevent damaging the upholstery or sustaining injuries. After vacuuming, dispose of the vacuum bag properly.
Seek professional assistance
The best way to deal with a broken windshield is to contact experienced technicians at an auto glass shop. These professionals understand the technicalities that help determine the severity of the damage and decide upon repairs or replacement.
After the windshield breaks, contact a reputable glass repair or replacement shop as soon as possible to inspect and replace the windshield.
Lucid Auto Glass provides mobile windshield repair and replacement in Tacoma, Olympia, Renton, Lakewood, and surrounding areas. Our auto glass services include windshield replacement, rock chip repair, crack repair, and leak repair as well as door window regulator and door window motor repair and replacement. Family-owned and operated. Military discounts available.
