Immediate Steps to Take if a Rock hits your Windshield

With every passing day, the number of vehicles is increasing rapidly. There is so much pressure on roads due to the ever-growing traffic. And that is the main reason that wear and tear on the roads has become too frequent.

One’s vehicle is more prone to get hit by a rock while driving on such damaged roads. In case you are the unfortunate bearer of such a sudden rock hits the windshield incident, you should take the following immediate steps:

Assess the Damage

First, check the level of damage after a rock has hit the windshield. This initial assessment will help you understand the situation’s urgency and the right actions.

Temporary Fixes

If it’s a small crack or chip, and you can’t get professional help immediately, here are some temporary fixes that may stop a crack or chip from spreading.

Quick-and-easy DIY

1. Apply Clear Nail Polish

Apply a coat of clear nail polish to the chip or crack. It helps prevent damage from spreading, at least until you can have it fixed by a professional service provider.

2. Use a Clear Tape

Use clear tape over the affected area to prevent dirt and moisture from getting inside. This is a temporary remedy to avoid further damage to the part.

Windshield Repair Kits

Auto parts stores sell many of these repair kits. These kits usually contain a resin put in the damaged area to seal it. Remember to follow the instruction sheet closely.

Avoiding Further Damage

It is crucial to avoid further damage to your windshield if you cannot have it repaired professionally immediately. Here’s how to do it:

Drive Carefully

1. Avoid Potholes and Rough Roads

Driving over rugged terrain can cause vibrations that may enlarge a crack or chip on your windshield.

2. Maintain a Safe Distance

Keep your distance from other vehicles, particularly trucks and other heavy vehicles, which can make small particles fly around.

Concerns About Temperature

1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Rapid temperature changes can lead to the glass expanding and contracting, increasing the damage. Try not to direct air from a heater or air conditioner directly onto the damaged area.

2. Park in the Shade

Park your car in a shaded area or a garage so the windshield doesn’t heat up too fast.

Seek Professional Help

While the above-mentioned self-help solutions are possible temporary solutions, only expert professional help may provide a permanent solution for your cracked windshield. Auto glass repair services are mainly concerned with repairing and replacing damaged windshields.

When You Need Expert Help

1. Immediate Attention

Consider seeking professional repair for windshield cracks immediately if they obstruct the driver’s view, extend to the edges of the windscreen, or are expanding rapidly.

2. Small Damage

Even tiny chips and cracks shall be repaired immediately to stop them from getting enlarged.

Hiring a Repair Service

Look for reputable windshield repair services in your area. With their experience and tools, professional technicians can be there to inspect how severe the damage is and if it is necessary to repair or replace it. Ensure the service being chosen is well-rated and certified.

Insurance Considerations

It is essential to know what your insurance will cover to maintain the expenses for repairing or replacing your rock-hit windshield at the bare minimum.

Comprehensive Documentation

If you have comprehensive auto insurance, it should probably cover the expenses you have to bear in case of a rock hitting your car’s windshield. Contact your insurance provider and file a claim to confirm coverage details.

Deductibles

Find out what your deductible is on the policy—there may be times when the cost of repair or replacement is below the deductible, leaving you to pay out of pocket.

Zero Deductible Glass Coverage

Some insurance plans have glass coverage without a deductible. So, check it by going thoroughly through your insurance documents.

Preventive Measures

Regularly inspect the windshield for minor nicks, chips, and other small damages.

Safe Driving Practices

1. Maintain a Safe Distance

Keep a safe distance from trucks and construction vehicles, which have a greater probability of kicking up debris

2. Avoid Construction Zones

If you can, avoid driving through construction zones, where loose gravel and rocks are more common.

Windshield Protection

1. Protective Film

One may think of a protective film on the windshield to provide some protection in guarding against chips and cracks due to stones and other debris.

2. Periodic Inspections

Inspect the windshield regularly for minor nicks, chips, and other small damage.

Conclusion

Do not let a rock-hit windshield ruin your day. Be in charge of what you do to negate the challenges. Damage assessment, temporary fixes, avoidance of further damage, seeking professional help, understanding the insurance cover, and taking preventive measures would go a long way toward restoring your windscreen and peace.

Windshield repair services keep your vehicle safe and intact, and they also help you save time and money in the future. Remember: a cracked windshield not only ruins your view but also devalues your vehicle’s structure.

Repair or replace it as soon as possible. If you need auto glass repairs or replacements immediately, contact NuVision Auto Glass now.