When you hear the words vehicle maintenance, most of us tend to think of oil changes, tire rotations, and air filter replacements. One feature that many of us tend to forget is our windshield. It is one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. Neglecting the condition of your windshield can put you and your passengers at risk in the event of a collision or rollover event.
Auto glass was originally invented to make driving more comfortable. The primary function of a windshield was to keep debris, dirt, and dust from hitting the driver and passengers while travelling. It also protected them from rain, hail, and other weather conditions. As automobiles have become more advanced, so has the windshield. Over the years, it has become increasingly important in the overall safety of the modern vehicle.
In the event of a rollover, your windshield is a crucial component in maintaining the structural integrity of the passenger compartment. It helps to prevent the roof from crushing inward. A damaged or improperly installed windshield will not offer the strength needed to protect you during a rollover. This may result in head and neck injuries as well as ejection from the vehicle.
According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), rollover crashes account for only 3% of all collisions. However, rollovers are responsible for 31% of total vehicular fatalities. This high number is due to occupant ejection and traumatic head injuries. Keeping your windshield well maintained can give you the protection you need should a rollover occur.
Another reason you need a well maintained windshield is for proper deployment of your passenger-side airbag. When it is triggered, it often impacts the windshield. If your windshield is cracked or damage, it may break completely upon impact, causing your airbags to malfunction. When this occurs, it could lead to injuries for your passenger.
In the event of a collision, your seatbelts keep you restrained and prevent your body from exiting the car. If your seatbelts should happen to malfunction or you are not wearing one, the windshield acts as a barrier to keep you from being thrown from the vehicle. Your chances of survival decrease significantly when you are ejected from a car. Cracked or damaged glass may not withstand the impact and as a result, you and our passengers will not have the added protection needed to keep you safely in the vehicle.
Even the smallest chip can spread quickly into a large crack. When this happens, your vision may be impaired. Sunlight reflecting off of the damaged window can blind you, making it impossible to see the road. Don’t take chances with a cracked windshield. Get it repaired to maintain a clear and unobstructed view as you travel.
Removing and replacing a windshield requires specialized tools and skills. This is not a do-it-yourself kind of job. You need to enlist the assistance of a professional glass company that sells high quality glass and provides expert installation. Your windshield is crucial to your safety, be sure to find an experienced and qualified glass technician in your area.
In the Greensboro, High Point, or Winston Salem area of NC, DeDona Auto Glass is the premier choice for windshield repair and replacement for all types of vehicles. Contact us for a free quote or to schedule service.
