Four Steps To Take When Your Windshield Is Damaged While Driving
Car maintenance is just part of owning a vehicle. Over time, parts of your car may break down or become damaged. Unfortunately, this can be very alarming if it happens while you're driving. Rocks, branches, and other debris can damage your car's windshield while you're driving, especially if you're on the highway. If this happens to you, don't panic. Here are four steps you can take instead.
1. Pull over to the side of the road.
If something strikes your car windshield and causes a large crack that impairs your view, pull over to the shoulder lane as soon as you can do so safely. Driving with a compromised windshield is very dangerous. Cracked or punctured glass is weaker and more likely to break, in which case you could get hurt by glass pieces. It's also hazardous to drive with something obstructing your vision.
2. Call your insurance company.
Next, you should make a call to your insurance company. According to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), your insurance company will pay for the entire cost of your windshield repair if you have comprehensive coverage. Even if you don't have comprehensive insurance, it's still worth calling your insurance provider. Remember that calling to ask a question doesn't mean you necessarily have to file a claim. They may pay for part of the cost of your windshield repair, and you won't find out for sure unless you ask.
3. Have your car towed.
If your car is unsafe to drive due to windshield damage, you'll have to call a tow truck to have it moved back to your home. Depending on your insurance, you might be entitled to a free tow, so remember to ask about that when you're on the phone with your insurance company. While you wait for the tow truck, make sure to stay in your car or in another safe place and watch out for moving traffic.
4. Call a mobile glass repair service.
After your car has made it safely home, it's time to call a glass repair service. A mobile glass repair service is ideal since they will come to do the repair at your home, saving you the cost of another tow truck. Most windshield repairs can be completed very quickly, so you should be able to have it fixed the same day.
If your windshield is damaged on the highway, the most important thing you can do is remain calm. These simple steps will help you get your car safely back home and repaired in no time.