While driving, it is possible that the windshield of your car gets hit by a rock or a flying piece of debris. Sometimes, the vehicle in front of you can kick up such rocks or pieces of stone from the road and if you are unfortunate enough, these can hit your car. In other instances, trucks carrying rocks can drop them on their way and such a rock can come flying to hit your windshield. Whatever the reason be, getting hit by a rock can be aggravating, shocking and in some cases, quite dangerous.
While driving, it is possible that the windshield of your car gets hit by a rock or a flying piece of debris. Sometimes, the vehicle in front of you can kick up such rocks or pieces of stone from the road and if you are unfortunate enough, these can hit your car. In other instances, trucks carrying rocks can drop them on their way and such a rock can come flying to hit your windshield. Whatever the reason be, getting hit by a rock can be aggravating, shocking and in some cases, quite dangerous.
In this article, we discuss the steps that you should take if a rock hits your windshield while driving. Read on to learn more.
1. Pull Over To Inspect The Damage
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, as soon as you realize that you have been hit by a rock or debris, you should pull over to inspect the damage done. As mentioned before, it is crucial to remain calm during this time and objectively note the extent of the impact.
2. Assess The Situation
It is important to correctly assess the extent of damage done to your windshield. This will determine whether you need immediate assistance or can wait a while before getting the glass repaired. Here are the three most common scenarios and what you should do in case of each of them
- If it is a tiny chip or a crack at a relatively less evident place like the corner of your windshield, then you can usually let it be for the time being. Such cases will not hugely impact your ability to drive and will not affect the windshield as much. In most cases, you can securely tape the place and drive on.
- If it is a crack that is sizable (~6 inches) but is not immediately affecting your ability to drive, then you can tape up the place temporarily. However, you will need to get this repaired as soon as possible to prevent the crack from growing in size and destroying the entire windshield.
- If the windshield is shattered or so damaged that you can barely see out of it or it prevents you from driving, then you will need to get help immediately. Call a friend for help and contact your preferred collision repair center for picking your car up
3. Cover The Damaged Area
In most cases, you will need to cover the damaged area with tape until you can get the glass repaired. Use clear tape for this purpose and take care to not expose the damaged windshield to extreme heat or cold as that can aggravate the crack. It is always advisable to avoid car washes in this condition to prevent further damage.
4. Check Your Insurance Coverage
I case you need the entire windshield to be replaced or repaired, it is a good idea to check with your insurance company on the possibility of the waiver of the deductible on the same. Most companies have that provision and if you can get one, then it will definitely be useful now.
5. Get Professional Help
And finally, it is prudent to get help with the repair or replacement. Changing or repairing a windshield required skill and is best left to the able hands of a professional, unless of course, you are confident about doing it yourself. For minor cracks or holes, you can also visit a windshield repair stand, especially if you are far away from your preferred repair shop. However, in most cases, it is always best to visit a collision repair center and get the job done.
And finally, it is prudent to get help with the repair or replacement. Changing or repairing a windshield required skill and is best left to the able hands of a professional, unless of course, you are confident about doing it yourself. For minor cracks or holes, you can also visit a windshield repair stand, especially if you are far away from your preferred repair shop. However, in most cases, it is always best to visit a collision repair center and get the job done.
Collision Repair Center
At Tropical Chevrolet Collision Center, we understand the requirements of individual customers and offer them the best services as per their needs. If you are looking for a collision repair center in Aventura, then look no further. We are here to help you. Whether you require your vehicle windshield to be repaired or replaced, don’t hesitate to call us today at (305) 908-5548. Alternatively, you can also schedule an appointment by visiting our website.