Drivers might not think twice about a small crack or chip in their windshield until that minor damage turns into a bigger, more expensive problem. Whether caused by a flying rock, sudden temperature change, or just everyday wear, cracked auto glass isn’t something to ignore.
At Arrow Auto Glass & Door, we know how crucial a clear, intact windshield is not just for visibility, but for safety, vehicle integrity, and even legal compliance. Here’s why it’s important to replace a cracked windshield sooner rather than later.
A Cracked Windshield Can Compromise Your Safety
Your windshield does more than block wind and rain. It plays a structural role in your vehicle, particularly in the event of a rollover or collision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the windshield provides up to 60 percent of the structural strength in a rollover crash.
A crack, even a small one, can weaken the glass and reduce its ability to protect you in an accident. The laminated safety glass used in most modern vehicles is designed to hold together during impact, but once damaged, its effectiveness drops significantly. That means airbags may not deploy properly, and the roof could collapse more easily in a rollover.
Cracks Tend to Spread
What starts as a dime-sized chip can quickly spider web across your windshield. Changes in temperature, driving over potholes, or even just normal vibrations from the road can cause a crack to expand.
Experts from the Auto Glass Safety Council note that damage larger than a dollar bill or located directly in the driver’s line of sight often cannot be safely repaired. In these cases, full replacement is the only safe option. And once the damage spreads, repair is off the table entirely.
Reduced Visibility Increases the Risk of Accidents
A cracked windshield can distort the driver’s view especially when the sun hits it just right or when driving at night with oncoming headlights. Even a small chip can cause glare or refraction that distracts the driver.
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that impaired visibility is one of the top contributors to vehicle accidents. Driving with compromised vision, even from something as simple as a crack, is not worth the risk.
It May Be Illegal to Drive with a Damaged Windshield
Each state has laws governing what’s acceptable when it comes to windshield damage. In Minnesota, it is illegal to operate a vehicle if the windshield has any cracks or discoloration that interferes with the driver’s view. Law enforcement can issue citations for unsafe glass, and vehicles may not pass inspection if damage is deemed hazardous.
Replacing a cracked windshield helps you avoid legal issues and gives you peace of mind on the road.
A Fast Fix Can Save You Money
Replacing a cracked windshield may seem like a hassle, but it’s far more affordable than dealing with additional damage later. If the crack spreads or causes the windshield to shatter during impact, the cost and risk goes up dramatically.
Many insurance policies cover glass replacement with little or no deductible, especially if you carry comprehensive coverage. At Arrow Auto Glass & Door, we’ll even help you navigate the insurance process to make it as smooth as possible.
Why Choose Arrow Auto Glass & Door
Here’s what you get when you choose Arrow Auto for your windshield replacement:
Arrow Auto is proud to serve northern Minnesota drivers with fast, friendly, and affordable windshield replacement. Whether your damage is a simple chip or a long crack, we’ll take care of it quickly—and correctly.
A cracked windshield isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a serious safety issue. Delaying repairs can lead to higher costs, impaired visibility, and even legal trouble. Replacing it as soon as possible ensures you stay safe, compliant, and confident behind the wheel.
If you’ve spotted a crack, don’t wait. Contact Arrow Auto Glass & Door today for a free estimate and fast, expert service. Locally owned and operated with locations in Hibbing at 218-262-2993 and Virginia at 218-741-2993.
We now offer windshield repair and replacement at our NEW Hibbing location, at 620 E Howard St. We offer FREE Pickup and Drop-off services to Hibbing, Chisholm, Nashwauk, Keewatin, Pengilly and Side Lake areas.
Our original Virginia location will continue serving customers as it has for the last 76 years!