Your windshield isn’t just there to block the wind as you drive down the road. It is a significant factor in your safety. Damaged windshields hurt your visibility and the structural integrity of your car, including your roof. You need to take care of it, so it takes care of you. Windshields can always crack, but luckily, you can do a lot to prevent that from happening. Here are some ways to keep you and your windshield safe.
Ease Away From Large Trucks
Large trucks mean large wheels, and these wheels quickly bring up rocks. To avoid spending big money on a fix, try to stay away from these trucks, especially when traveling at high speeds. Not only will you prolong your windshield’s life, but you will also be able to see the upcoming road and be better prepared for any potential hazards. It is best to be far in front or far behind them. This position will allow you to avoid hitting any fly-away debris from the truck and its cargo.
Drive Cautiously on Unkempt Roads
Your windshield likes your car to be balanced, so it is not jostled around. Smooth, well-maintained, leveled roads are ideal, but that is not always available. Running over potholes, road debris, or gravely country roads can damage everything your car has. Driving defensively is the best defense in these kinds of conditions. Drive slow and cautiously while looking around for possible hazards. Increase your following distance to give yourself plenty of reaction time. Above all, don’t expect others to react the way you would on the road. Defensive driving means protecting your vehicle on the road by being in tune with yourself and others.
Don’t Speed Over Speed Bumps
Like unkempt roadways, speed bumps can also throw your car’s balance off and hurt your windshield. A speed bump can cause significant damage at high speeds, especially if it’s tall. A speed bump is meant to slow you down for the safety of others around you. Going slow could save your windshield and another person’s life.
Sometimes these windshield mishaps are unavoidable. At Performance Collision Centers, there is no job too small! Whether you have a crack or a chip, our Gold-Class Certified technicians are trained to inspect and communicate their plan to get you back on the road- before any work is done to your car! Visit a Performance Collision Center near you or use our tool to get a FREE estimate today!