December 2017
Windshields chip and crack more often then we'd like.
The worst part is, this can happen in the blink of an eye! You could be driving down the highway and all of a sudden — DINK. A rock gets kicked up by the truck in front of you and leaves you with a fractured windshield.
Or, perhaps you left your car parked underneath the tree in your driveway just before one of our signature Stillwater snowstorms. OOPS! A branch broke off and landed right on your squeaky clean (and clear) windshield.
No matter how it happened, the important thing is that you act quickly after discovering a cracked windshield. While sometimes, smaller chips and cracks can be repaired without incident, there are other times where your car might require a full-on windshield replacement. This is typically necessary if the crack extends all the way across the windshield in either direction.
Luckily, the trusted auto body collision repair technicians at Hassis Paintworks have you covered. If you’re looking for glass replacement in Stillwater, then this is the place to be.
Here are a few reasons why you need to bring your car in today, rather than driving around with a cracked and obstructed windshield.
It’s Dangerous
Driving with a chipped, cracked, or broken windshield can be extremely dangerous for a variety of reasons.
First of all, particularly if the crack is in the driver’s field of vision, it can obstruct the view and create a significant hazard. In that case, you’re not only endangering yourself, you’re endangering the other drivers on the road as well.
Not only that, a cracked or damaged windshield can be extremely detrimental to your safety in the event of an accident or impact.
Cracked windshields are known to break and shatter much easier, as there is already a compromise in the structure of the glass. That can leave you vulnerable to ejection, a loss of structural integrity, and an overall increased risk of injury in the event of an auto collision.
The windshield is more than just a protective layer from the elements while driving; it’s a crucial part of the structural integrity. Having a damaged windshield can be devastating not only your car, but your safety, and can even cause the roof to collapse in the event of an accident.
All of this can be avoided, of course when you act quickly to have your windshield replaced.
It Looks Bad
While safety is the most important issue when it comes to a cracked windshield, you should also be aware of the aesthetic displeasure that comes from a crack.
Your car simply looks bad with a cracked or chipped windshield, which can decrease its value and really be a problem if you are trying to sell or trade in your vehicle.
It Might Be Illegal
In Minnesota, the laws don’t specifically state that a windshield is required — but if you’re driving around this winter, we think you’re probably going to want one.
However, the laws do have a few specific guidelines when it comes to obstructions as a result of chips or cracks.
While the size of permitted cracks or chips isn’t specified in the bylaws, you should be aware that a ticket would ultimately be up to the officer’s discretion. There are penalties for driving with a windshield that is discolored or cracked in a way that limits your clear view.
In that case, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Trusted Windshield Replacement In Stillwater
At Hassis Paintworks, we do a whole lot more than auto body collision repair. We can handle your glass replacement in a quick, efficient manner to help you remain as safe as possible while on the road. Reach out today for your free estimate.