Has a rock ever hit your windshield while you were driving down the freeway? The loud, sharp noise it makes can be frightening, but the damage it causes can be even more nerve-wracking. Driving with a cracked or chipped windshield is potentially dangerous. These cracks and chips can spread and weaken your windshield, in addition to making it harder for you to see. You may even get a ticket if the damage is severe enough. Fortunately, most chips and cracks can be easily and affordably repaired. If they are too big or irreparable, you will need to replace your windshield. Read on to find out when and how you should repair or replace your cracked windshield.
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Repairing a Cracked Windshield
Many different causes can lead to a damaged windshield. Usually, cracks and chips occur on the freeway, since increased speeds lead to more forcible impacts. Uncovered trucks may be carrying gravel or other types of rock, pieces of which can fly out and hit following cars. Car and truck tires may also toss rocks and debris into the air when they drive over them. No matter how it happens, the fact is: rocks and debris crack and chip windshields. The good news? Windshield repair is fairly easy.
There are many professional repair services. National companies like TechnaGlass and SafeLite have many locations in Utah. Technicians will repair cracks and chips by filling them in with a special resin. This helps prevent damage from spreading, especially during hot and cold weather. Repair is much more affordable than full replacement, and goes a long way towards preventing further damage. If you have a small crack or chip in your windshield, it is worthwhile to research your repair options.
Replacing a Cracked Windshield
One general rule states that cracks can be repaired if they fit under a dollar bill. If the crack or chip in your windshield is larger than that, you may have to replace it. Replacement is much more expensive than repair, but it is the safest thing to do if the damage is severe.
Most businesses that offer windshield repair also offer replacement. If the car dealership where you bought your car has a service department, contact them for an opinion. Replacement windshields are sometimes weaker than the originals, so make sure you are purchasing a quality replacement.
Good Guys Injury Law: Car Accident Lawyers
In addition to accidental chips and cracks, windshields can be damaged in collisions. If you are not at fault in such a collision, you may be eligible for compensation. At Good Guys Injury Law, our car accident lawyers help clients win settlements to cover their injuries and property losses. We are dedicated to helping accident victims recover.
As part of our effort to provide unmatched legal service, we wrote a book on accident law. This book, 7 Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Utah Accident Case, is available for free to anyone interested. Just click on the title above to order your free copy. If you are injured and looking to file a claim, please contact us today. We will help you build the strongest case possible.