Windshield Repair and Passenger Safety
Most drivers are correct when they worry about windshield glass damages due to cracks or chips. Unsightly damages on auto glass can reduce car value, have an impact on car lease returns, and get in the way of a driver's line of vision. However, not all the problems are cosmetic, and there are structural implications to take into consideration, as well. In fact, one of the primary reasons why insurance companies will cover windshield chip repair or even entire windshield replacement is because a vehicle's auto glass is an important part of keeping the diver – and passengers – safe from harm.
Auto Glass and Safety Restraint Systems
The Safety Restraint System (SRS) in a vehicle is what keeps people safe. It includes the air bags, seat belts, and the windshield. Vehicle engineers design this system to work in conjunction with one another, so that when one component is damaged, the other components might not be as effective as they should be, either.
While this doesn't mean that a chip in your windshield will stop your air bag from deploying in the event of a collision, it does mean that you should get chips repaired before they can develop into larger cracks or impede the line of vision. It also means that you should always have a professional do the repairs or windshield replacement, since an incorrect windshield seal or other “shortcut” might get in the way of your Safety Restraint System effectiveness.
Windshields are also an integral part of a vehicle's “rollover” ability. In an effort to make cars lighter and more gas-efficient, steel pillars or reinforcements are no longer used to support the roof; instead, the windshield is meant to provide rollover support. A windshield that is damaged going into the accident can contribute to the collapse of the roof.
The Importance of Windshield Repair
While there is nothing wrong with getting windshield chip repairs as a way to maintain your car's look and value, it's important never to forget the role of auto glass in vehicle safety. Always get your windshield replacement and windshield chip repairs from a professional company that knows how to maintain the factory seal. It's the only way to guarantee the safety of your passengers.