Does a Cracked Windshield Affect Driving?
2 Answers
If there is a small crack in the windshield, it needs to be replaced promptly. Here are the relevant details: 1. When a small crack appears, many people choose not to repair it. Although this may not pose an immediate safety risk, the crack can expand over time due to external environmental factors. 2. This not only affects the driver's visibility but may also directly threaten the safety of the vehicle's occupants. 3. The windshield was invented in the 1920s when Ford had the idea to sandwich two layers of glass with a layer of PVC plastic in between, creating a laminated glass structure similar to a sandwich. This technology is still in use today.
I believe that a small crack in the windshield definitely affects driving safety, especially when it's directly in front of the driver's position. Your line of sight may be obstructed, making it harder to see the road clearly, particularly under strong sunlight or during rainy days when reflections are more pronounced. Additionally, the structural integrity of the glass is already weakened, and vibrations from driving or temperature changes can cause the crack to expand rapidly. If it suddenly shatters one day, it could be disastrous. I've encountered a similar issue before—a small crack caused by a pebble impact. I didn't repair it in time, and within a few days, the crack spread, nearly causing a problem on the highway. I recommend not taking the risk and getting it repaired or replaced by a professional auto glass shop as soon as possible. Fixing a small crack is quite affordable, just a few hundred yuan, and replacing the entire windshield isn't too expensive either. Safety comes first. Also, remember to avoid driving too fast on bumpy roads to minimize further risk.