What To Do When Your Windshield Cracks Or Chips
Posted on: 9 January 2019
Your car's windshield is designed to hold up to a surprising about of impact and vibration; unfortunately, flying debris on the highway or even falling hail can cause cracks or chips in your windshield glass. By knowing the necessary steps to take when you encounter a chipped or cracked windshield, you can stay safe and have repairs done in no time.
Pull Over if Your Safety is Compromised
First of all, know when auto glass damage is severe enough to warrant pulling over and having your car towed to a local repair shop. If the crack or chip is directly in your line of vision or is otherwise compromising your safety behind the wheel, do not continue driving; pull over as soon as you can safely do so.
Protect Your Car From the Elements
If you are able to drive your car safely, try to get home as soon as possible. When you do, park your car in an area where it will be as protected from the elements as possible. This includes both sunlight and moisture, which can cause the chip or crack in your windshield to worsen. If you don't have a garage or car port available, cover the glass with a trash bag to protect it from moisture, then cover that with a thick towel or blanket to reduce sunlight penetration until you're able to have a repair done.
Contact Your Insurance Agent
If you have comprehensive coverage on your vehicle, there's a good chance you won't be responsible for the repair or replacement costs on your windshield. In many cases, you will not even need to pay a deductible. Just be sure to report the incident to your auto insurance agent as soon as possible so you can complete the necessary claims paperwork.
Follow Instructions After the Repair
Once your auto glass is repaired using a bonding resin, you'll probably be instructed to avoid washing your car for at least 24 hours; this will give the resin time to set. Be sure to follow any other instructions you may be given at the time of the repair to ensure the best results.
Experiencing a cracked or chipped windshield can be a major headache, but it doesn't have to be the end of the world. And if you have comprehensive auto insurance coverage, you can likely have any necessary repairs done without having to pay out of pocket! Contact a windshield service for more help.
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