Windshields and other auto glass commonly suffer damage from hard objects, like stones thrown up by other vehicles’ tires. According to Fox59, U.S. motorists pay to replace about 14 million windshields every year. It’s possible for auto glass repair to fix minor damage when a full replacement isn’t necessary. Whenever you have damaged auto glass, here’s why it’s important to take care of it as soon as possible.

Damage Often Gets Worse

Small cracks or chips may initially seem harmless but can spread over time. Auto glass experiences significant temperature changes with nature and your vehicle's systems. These temperature shifts add stress that can cause cracks to lengthen and new ones to form, potentially compromising the entire windshield or other glass. The stresses damaged auto glass undergoes while driving can also cause cracks to grow longer and sprout new cracks that overtake your windshield or other glass.

Damage Location Could Affect Vision

Depending on where the damage is located, it could prove to be dangerous. A crack or chip that is in your line of sight while driving can be very distracting. It also might cause you to miss a vehicle, a pedestrian, or an object that contacts your vehicle. Initiating auto glass repair or replacement will cure the problem, and it won’t cost a lot of money. A quality service will offer mobile repair or replacement services that make it very easy to have your auto glass fixed or replaced.

Damaged Glass Enables Fog and Frost

A crack or a deep chip might enable moisture to enter your vehicle while it’s parked, causing fog or frost to form on the inside. You’ll have to run the defroster while letting the vehicle warm up to get rid of it. You also might need an ice scraper to remove frost on the inside of the glass or a towel to wipe away the fog. Frost and fog can be very dangerous because they limit your vision.

State Laws Require Fixing Damaged Auto Glass

Delaying auto glass repair might earn you a fix-it ticket from a local police officer. Many states require motorists to fix or replace their damaged auto glass, especially if the windshield is damaged. They require repairs or replacement because it’s dangerous to drive with a badly damaged windshield. The damage also weakens the passenger cabin’s structural integrity.

Has your windshield recently been damaged? Contact Truck Glass Inc to learn more and schedule service for your vehicle’s auto glass. We look forward to repairing your windshield!