Few things cause as much concern for drivers as windshield cracks. They are unsightly, potentially expensive to repair, and often raise important questions like whether it is safe to drive with a cracked windshield. Even a tiny crack can evolve into a significant safety risk, compromising the structural integrity of your car and its ability to protect you in an accident. If cracks manifest in the wrong location, they can interfere with the driver’s field of vision. At the same time, cracked windshields are rarely your fault unless you hit something with your car or cause an accident. The damage usually results from falling objects (e.g., hail damage) or the vehicle in front of you kicking up a rock or piece of road debris that flies back and strikes your windshield.  So now, through no fault of your own, your windshield is cracked—and you must decide what to do about it. This decision raises questions, especially if you have a small crack in the corner of your windshield that seems harmless and isn’t getting in the way. Can you drive with a cracked windshield? Is it even legal to drive with a broken windshield?   

Is a Cracked Windshield Dangerous?

Whether it’s legal to drive with a broken windshield depends on the state, but the safety implications are definitely worth considering regardless. Small windshield cracks may seem harmless. In fact, you may not even notice them for days or weeks after they occur.  If a crack doesn’t interfere with your vision when driving, it can be easy to delay having it fixed. However, even if you have a crack that doesn’t violate state regulations, it’s always a good idea to get it repaired sooner rather than later. Over time, extreme heat, direct sunlight, snow and ice on the surface of the glass, motor vibrations, and bumpy roads can cause the crack to grow in size. If neglected long enough, cracks will eventually grow large enough to render the windshield compromised.  Although today’s high-tech automotive glass will usually prevent a windshield from completely collapsing, a shattered windshield doesn’t provide optimum protection in a collision, and can obstruct your vision or focus (increasing the risk of a future accident). Ultimately, while you can drive with a cracked windshield, it’s never a good idea to do so. Repairing it should be a priority, and doing so right away can help you save money in the long run. Most windshield chips and cracks can be repaired while still small—a procedure that costs much less than a complete windshield replacement.  

Is It Illegal to Drive with a Cracked Windshield?

So, is it illegal to drive with a broken windshield? That depends on the size and type of crack, whether it impairs your vision, and the laws in your state.  Interestingly, federal regulations do exist for cracked windshields. These regulations permit cracks or chips smaller than ¾ inch in diameter, but they can’t be within three inches of another crack. Also, driving with a windshield crack is illegal if it’s directly in the driver’s line of sight. States must adhere to federal regulations, but have some leeway when writing their own laws. For this reason, most states mandate that windshields may not have any cracks or flaws that interfere with the driver’s view.  

State Windshield Laws

Most states have a transportation code that relates specifically to auto windshields. For example, Wisconsin Transportation Code 305.34 says, "Every motor vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1936, shall have a windshield made of safety glass.” It goes on to say that the windshield may not be excessively cracked or damaged, and then defines it in detail.    Excessive damage is defined as a crack:

• Inside or that extends inside the windshield’s critical area.
• Extends into any area more than eight inches from the frame.
• Has stone or shot damage greater than .5 inches in diameter in the windshield’s critical area or greater than 1.5 inches in diameter in any other area.

Florida Transportation Code Section 316.610 declares it a civil infraction to drive a vehicle in an unsafe condition due to faulty or defective equipment that endangers the driver or other citizens. Florida state courts have ruled that a cracked windshield impeding the driver’s line of sight violates this section.  Unlike Wisconsin, the size, shape, and length of the crack are not defined. This leaves it up to the discretion of the police officer to decide whether the crack impairs the driver’s vision. In the interest of safety, some states, such as Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina require car insurance companies to pay the total cost of windshield repairs. This requirement prevents drivers from putting off repairs due to the cost. However, in most states, car owners need comprehensive car insurance to cover any windshield repairs or replacements.  It pays to know your state windshield laws from a financial and safety standpoint. To learn about the laws in your state, contact your Department of Motor Vehicles or read up on cracked windshield laws.  

How Soon Should I Repair a Cracked Windshield? 

While you can take measures to prevent a cracked windshield, the damage is sometimes beyond your control. However, because it is not safe to drive with a cracked windshield, we recommend scheduling a windshield repair or replacement as soon as possible, regardless of your state’s laws.  Fortunately, getting a windshield repair or replacement doesn’t need to break the bank.  At Fix Auto USA, we are committed to providing drivers with comprehensive and affordable repair services. Whether you need minor windshield crack repairs or a total replacement, bring it to your nearest Fix Auto USA location, and we’ll ensure your windshield is taken care of quickly and efficiently to help you get back on the road sooner.