A windshield crack while driving can be a startling and dangerous experience, especially if the damage obstructs your view. Windshields are designed to be durable, but road debris, temperature changes, and sudden impacts can cause them to crack unexpectedly. Knowing how to handle a windshield crack while driving can help keep you safe and prevent further damage to the glass.
Why Windshields Crack While Driving
Windshield cracks can happen for several reasons, and understanding the most common causes can help prevent them.
Flying debris from other vehicles—Loose gravel, small rocks, and road debris can hit the windshield at high speeds.
Sudden temperature changes—Blasting air conditioning on a hot windshield or exposure to direct sunlight can cause expansion and contraction, leading to cracks.
Structural weakness from previous damage—Existing chips that haven’t been repaired can easily spread into larger cracks.
Potholes and rough roads—Driving over uneven surfaces can put stress on the windshield, worsening existing damage.
Extreme weather conditions—Heavy rain, hail, or strong winds can cause impact damage to the glass.
Immediate Steps to Take If Your Windshield Cracks While Driving
If your windshield suddenly cracks while on the road, staying calm and taking the right steps will help keep you and other drivers safe.
Stay Calm and Assess the Crack
Check whether the crack is small and contained or spreading rapidly.
If the crack is small and does not obstruct visibility, continue driving cautiously.
If the crack spans across the windshield, you may need to pull over.
Slow Down and Avoid Bumpy Roads
Reduce speed to minimize vibrations that can make the crack spread.
Avoid potholes and rough terrain, which could cause further stress on the windshield.
Turn Off Air Conditioning or Heating
Sudden temperature changes can make cracks worse.
If it’s hot outside, avoid blasting cold air directly onto the windshield.
If it’s cold, avoid using defrosters at high heat settings.
Keep a Safe Distance from Other Vehicles
Avoid driving too close behind trucks and large vehicles that may kick up debris.
Stay in a lane with fewer cars if possible to prevent additional impacts.
Pull Over Safely If the Crack Obstructs Visibility
If the crack blocks your vision, pull over to a safe location.
Use emergency lights if you need to stop on the side of the road.
Check for any additional damage to the windshield before deciding to continue driving.
Can You Keep Driving with a Cracked Windshield?
Driving with a cracked windshield is not always illegal, but it can be unsafe depending on the size and location of the damage.
Safe to Drive If: The crack is small, contained, and not in the driver’s direct line of sight.
Unsafe to Drive If: The crack is large, spreading, or blocking your vision, making it difficult to see traffic, pedestrians, or road signs.
Legal Considerations: In Florida, a damaged windshield that impairs visibility can result in a traffic violation.
If you must drive with a crack, schedule a windshield repair as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse.
How to Prevent a Crack from Spreading
Even if you don’t have time to repair your windshield immediately, you can take temporary measures to slow the crack’s progression.
Apply clear tape over the crack to prevent dirt and moisture from entering.
Park in the shade or a garage to reduce heat exposure.
Avoid sudden temperature changes—do not wash your windshield with cold water after exposure to the sun.
Drive carefully and avoid potholes to reduce stress on the windshield.
What to Do After Parking Your Car
Once you’ve safely parked, take the following next steps to get your windshield repaired or replaced.
Inspect the crack again—If it’s longer than three inches, a full replacement may be necessary.
Check your insurance coverage—Most comprehensive auto insurance policies in Florida cover windshield replacement at no cost.
Schedule a professional windshield repair or replacement—A mobile auto glass service can come to you for convenience.
Final Thoughts: Handling a Windshield Crack While Driving
A cracked windshield can be a serious safety risk, especially if it blocks your vision or worsens over time. Knowing how to react immediately and what to do next can prevent further damage and ensure you stay safe on the road.
If your windshield cracks while driving, slow down, avoid extreme temperatures, and schedule a repair as soon as possible. For fast, mobile windshield repair or replacement, contact Bang AutoGlass today. Their certified technicians will fix the damage quickly, ensuring your windshield is safe and road-ready.
