Can You Drive with a Cracked Windshield? What ICBC Says (And What You Need to Know)

Discover How ICBC Can Help With a Cracked Windshield

Your vehicle’s windshield serves multiple purposes. It protects you and your passengers from the elements while providing a clear view of the road ahead. However, a cracked windshield can cause issues with both your field of view and vehicle safety. Drivers throughout Langley, BC and the surrounding area trust PayLess Glass for cracked windshield repair. If you’re concerned about the legality and safety of driving with a broken windshield, our team is here to help provide a clearer picture. We can address all your questions and concerns, and of course, provide windshield replacement service. Learn more, then contact us to schedule your replacement.

What Does ICBC Say About Cracked Windshields?

Rocks, road debris, sudden temperature changes, and poor installation can cause chips or cracks on your windshield. If you notice a chip or crack on your windshield, it’s essential to schedule a replacement immediately. The ICBC doesn’t specifically state that it’s illegal to drive with a cracked windshield. However, if a crack or chip obstructs your field of view, the ICBC and local law enforcement may ticket you or impound your vehicle until the damage is repaired.

What Are The Safety Risks of Driving With a Cracked Windshield?

Many drivers consider cracked windshields an inconvenience. However, even a small crack or chip in your windshield can become a much bigger deal. While you may not need windshield replacement immediately, depending on the size and severity, the chip or crack will continue to grow, leading to a wide range of different issues with your vehicle’s safety. Learn more about the risks of driving with a cracked windshield:

• Reduced Structural Strength – A small crack can compromise the structural integrity of your windshield. If road debris strikes your windshield, it may cause the entire thing to shatter.
• Airbag Malfunction – When the airbag explodes outward, it bounces off the glass to cushion the passenger. If the windshield is weakened by a crack, the force of the airbag could shatter the glass or detach it entirely, rendering the airbag useless.
• Impaired Visibility – One of the most common dangers of a cracked windshield is impaired visibility. Cracks can obscure the line of sight, cause light to refract, and create glare.

Common Types of Windshield Damage and Severity

Not all windshield damage requires immediate replacement. Regardless of the size or severity, you should always inspect it and schedule a window replacement if you notice the crack expanding or the chip spreading. When you choose PayLess Glass for windshield replacement or repair, we’ll assess the damage and recommend the necessary service. Some of the most common types of windshield damage include the following:

• Bullseye – Bullseyes caused by rocks can typically be repaired if they are small and not in the driver’s direct line of sight.
• Star Break – A chip with small cracks radiating outward like a star. These are repairable if caught early, but they tend to spread quickly.
• Crack – Small cracks, separating the glass, can be repaired. However, if it’s longer than about six inches, it’ll need to be replaced.
• Pit – A pit is a small area of missing glass on the surface. They are generally minor issues that can be repaired.

ICBC Insurance Coverage for Windshield Repair and Replacement

If you have ICBC Comprehensive coverage, you are likely covered for all or part of the replacement caused by non-collision accidents, such as theft, vandalism, fire, and flying or falling debris. If the damage is minor enough to be repaired rather than replaced, and you have comprehensive coverage, ICBC typically covers the full cost of the repair with no deductible. If the windshield is too severely damaged to be saved, you will need a replacement. In this case, you may be responsible for covering the deductible.

Don’t Wait for It to Break – Schedule a Repair

If you notice a chip or crack on your windshield, you can save time and money while protecting yourself and passengers with windshield repair services by PayLess Glass in Langley, BC. Our knowledgeable and experienced technicians offer windshield repair and replacement services for nearly all makes and models of vehicles. We back our repair and replacement services with a limited lifetime warranty, which remains in effect as long as you own the car. Speak with a member of our team today to schedule your service.