Does A Shattered Windshield Require Towing?
A shattered windshield, or even a cracked windshield, can cause motorists extreme inconvenience and major interruptions to their daily schedule. Depending on the extent of the problem, you may be unable to legally and safely operate the vehicle until the damage is repaired. How can you tell if you need towing when your car has a shattered windshield?
Assess the Problem
Not all windshields break suddenly, going from perfect to shattered in seconds. Most windshield damage begins with a small chip or crack. If the crack is left unattended to, it literally can grow into a more serious issue, threatening the integrity of the vehicle’s structure. The windshield is not only a screen for wind and precipitation; it also supports the vehicle’s roof and the entire frame. Typically, if the crack in your windshield is larger than 6 inches or originates from the edge of the glass, your windshield will require complete replacement. If it is smaller than 6 inches and just happened, you have time to potentially repair the glass without removing the entire pane.
If your windshield has shattered, it probably was due to a flying object that hit it while the vehicle was in motion, or the windshield was struck with a large tree branch or other heavy objects while parked. Windshields are double-paned with a film placed in between each sheet of glass. If the glass shatters, the particles stick to the film instead of flying into the car, endangering the driver. However, even though the glass may still be in place, visibility has probably been reduced to a minimum or completely erased due to the shatter patterns blocking driver vision.
Minimize Further Damage
Ignoring windshield damage will only exacerbate the issue and raise the final price for repair. Talk to an auto glass specialist right away and determine if the damage can be fixed. In the meantime, do not park in hot, sunny areas. Keep your car parked in the shade to reduce heat pressure buildup, which puts further stress on the glass. Do not set your heating or cooling on high, and close doors softly — the impact of slamming them shut could cause the crack to spread.
Review State Laws
In many states, driving with a damaged windshield can result in a traffic violation and fine. If the officer decides the vehicle is not fit to drive, he or she may require you to hire a tow truck at that moment. Review your state’s and town’s regulations before risking a trip with a shattered windshield.
Schedule Tow Service
Stay proactive and call an affordable towing service to transport your car to the nearest auto glass repair shop. Contact Stauffer’s Towing, and you can expect assistance from a team of professionals who can advise you on the course of action suited to your situation, and if necessary, provide timely tow service for your vehicle with a shattered windshield.
