Driving a car with a cracked windscreen is not recommended as it can impair the driver’s vision and increase the chances of an accident.
Drivers must check that their vehicles are roadworthy and maintained according to road vehicle regulations. That includes repairing any cracks or chips in the windscreens as soon as possible. When driving with a cracked windscreen, take extra care and keep your speed down. It is also vital to be more attentive to any potential hazards that the crack may obscure.
Leave space between your car and the one in front when driving on roads with loose gravel or debris to reduce the risk of a cracked windscreen. Additionally, you should regularly check key maintenance items such as wiper blades.
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How Does a Windscreen Crack?
The cause of windscreen cracking can be challenging to pinpoint, but it usually involves an impact or pressure on the glass. Rocks, stones, or gravel from the road are often the culprits behind cracked windscreens, while poor glass quality and debris knocked about by bad weather can also contribute.
In some cases, seemingly random occurrences can lead to a cracked windscreen. For example, temperature changes due to extreme heat or cold can cause stress fractures in the glass that lead to cracks. It is also possible for small objects like pebbles or insects to lodge in the glass and then generate a crack when they dislodge.
Common Causes
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Chips
Windscreen chips are a common problem for drivers due to many factors. Driving at high speeds or sudden temperature changes can cause chips to become cracks, leading to costly repairs.
Fortunately, an easy and affordable way to fix these chips before they become full-blown cracks is resin injection. That process involves injecting a special resin into the chip, which then hardens and seals the crack. The resin helps prevent further damage, making it an ideal solution for those looking to save money on repairs.
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Road Debris
Road debris is a major hazard for drivers, as it can cause serious damage to windscreens. Other vehicles on the road can flick up small stones and pebbles, and the force of the impact can be enough to shatter an entire windscreen if it hits a weakened spot. Poorly loaded items falling from other vehicles can also cause damage, so keep your distance when following lorries or other large vehicles.
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Weather and Temperature
Leaving your car in direct sunlight on a hot day can be damaging due to sudden changes in temperature, especially in a hot country like UAE.
When it comes to a cracked windscreen, leaving your car in direct sunlight on a hot day can be even more damaging. The sudden temperature change can cause the glass to expand and contract, making the crack worse. That could lead to further damage or ever the need for a full replacement.
To avoid this, try to park your car in a shaded area and keep it out of direct sunlight when possible.
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Low-Quality Repairs or Installations
Poorly fitted windscreens can crack or shatter due to incorrect pressure placed on the glass.
Poorly fitted or low-quality windscreens can cause unexpected and potentially dangerous shattering.
When driving a car with a cracked windscreen, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. Low-quality repairs or installations can cause the glass to become weak and brittle, making it more likely to shatter when exposed to sudden changes in temperature or pressure.
Ensure that any repair or installation is done by a qualified professional.
In conclusion, driving a car with a cracked windscreen can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Common causes of windscreen cracking include road debris, temperature changes, and low-quality repairs or installations. If you find yourself in this situation, make sure to get the chip or crack fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
It’s worth mentioning that even the smallest crack in your windscreen could cause your car to lose value. Fortunately, you can receive an accurate estimation of the value of your car quickly and efficiently for free.