The Dangers of a Cracked Windshield

Steph Terry • October 18, 2023

The Dangers of a Cracked Windshield

Your car's windshield is not just a piece of glass; it's a critical safety component that significantly protects you and your passengers on the road. While it may seem like a minor issue, a cracked windshield can pose serious dangers if left unattended. That’s why we’re highlighting the risks that come with a cracked windshield and why immediate action is crucial.

1. Impaired Visibility

One of the most obvious dangers of a cracked windshield is impaired visibility. Even a small crack can distort your view of the road, inhibiting many split-second decisions. Additionally, a cracked windshield can cause the glare from oncoming headlights to scatter in unpredictable ways, further hindering your safety. This can easily lead to accidents in adverse weather conditions where clear vision is crucial for safe driving, such as rain, snow, or fog.

2. Structural Integrity Compromised

Your car's windshield is not just there to shield you from wind and debris; it also plays a crucial role in the structural integrity of your vehicle. Following a collision or rollover, the windshield helps prevent a roof collapse and protects you from being ejected, significantly increasing your chances of survival.

A cracked windshield significantly weakens this structural support, putting you and your passengers at an unnecessary risk. Therefore, addressing windshield damage promptly is essential for preserving the structural safety features of your vehicle.

3. Increased Risk of Shattering

A cracked windshield is more susceptible to shattering from the impact of a collision, sudden braking, or even a pothole. When a windshield shatters, it sends glass shards flying into the vehicle, posing a severe risk of injury. Furthermore, a shattered windshield can obstruct your vision, leaving you disoriented and unable to effectively respond to an emergency. This increased risk underscores the urgency of promptly addressing chips and cracks of any size.

4. Legal Consequences

Driving with a cracked windshield can lead to legal consequences, depending on your local regulations. Law enforcement can issue citations for driving with impaired visibility or a damaged windshield. Getting pulled over and fined is not only an inconvenience but can also increase your insurance premiums.

Moreover, a cracked windshield may lead to problems during vehicle inspections or emissions testing in some regions, potentially preventing your vehicle from passing these mandatory checks. Addressing windshield damage promptly helps you avoid legal trouble and ensures your vehicle remains compliant with local regulations, allowing you to drive without unnecessary complications or fines.

5. Compromised Airbag Functionality

A cracked windshield can also compromise the functionality of your vehicle's airbags. In modern cars, airbags distribute tremendous force to cushion the impact during a collision. However, they rely on the windshield to properly deploy. A cracked windshield may not absorb the impact correctly, leading to the airbags deploying incorrectly or not at all. This significantly reduces your protection in a crash and can result in more severe injuries.

6. Compromised Aesthetic Value

And while safety should always be your top priority on the road, a damaged windshield also affects your car’s aesthetic value. A damaged windshield not only diminishes your car’s overall appearance but can also lower its resale value. So if you’re planning to sell or trade in your vehicle, choosing the right technicians can help you find more potential buyers.

We Can Fix Your Cracked Windshield

In conclusion, a cracked windshield is not just a cosmetic issue; it's a safety hazard that should not be ignored. It impairs visibility, weakens your vehicle's structural integrity, increases the risk of shattering, and may even lead to legal trouble. If you notice a crack or chip on your windshield, it's essential to address it promptly by contacting a professional auto glass repair or replacement service.

We understand that your safety on the road can be a matter of life and death, and we’re proud to help our community navigate the diverse impacts of many solutions. If you’re dealing with cracked windshield or other collision damage, reach out to our team today to schedule an appointment. Don't compromise on safety – get that windshield fixed and return to safe, worry-free driving.

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What Factors Affect the Cost of Auto Collision Repairs?

February 27, 2025

When you're involved in a car accident, one of the first questions that might come to mind is: how much will it cost to repair my vehicle? The cost of collision repairs can vary significantly depending on multiple factors. At Morrow Collision Center, we believe in full transparency, so let’s take a closer look at what factors affect the cost of auto collision repairs. 1. The Extent of Damage One of the biggest factors affecting repair costs is the severity of the damage. Minor dents and scratches will cost significantly less than major structural damage . If essential components like the frame or suspension are affected, the repairs become more complex and expensive. 2. Type of Vehicle The make and model of your car play a big role in determining repair costs. Luxury and foreign cars often have specialized parts and materials that can be more expensive and timelier to replace. Additionally, newer models with advanced technology and sensors require specialized repair techniques, increasing labor costs. 3. Replacement Parts The choice between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, aftermarket parts, or used OEM parts can impact the cost. OEM parts tend to be pricier but ensure a perfect fit , while aftermarket or used parts might be more affordable but may vary in quality and compatibility. Your insurance company may not cover the full price of NEW OEM parts, so be sure to check your coverage! 4. Labor Costs Labor charges differ from shop to shop and market area, and depend on the complexity of the repair. High-tech features, like adaptive cruise control or collision avoidance systems, require skilled technicians, which can raise the cost of labor. 5. Paint and Finish If your car requires a new paint job, the cost will depend on the quality of paint, the number of coats, and whether custom paint matching is necessary. Some finishes require more precision and may increase costs. There are many types of paint finishes such as metallic, pearl, gloss, matte, or flat coats. Be sure to do your research on which may suit your preferences and needs best. Morrow Collision Center is proud to offer the PPG MoonWalk® system , ensuring the highest level of finish and precision. This state-of-the-art paint mixing technology provides exact color matching and a smooth application, so whether you’ve had a minor fender-bender or a more significant collision, we’ll restore your vehicle to its pre-accident beauty with unmatched accuracy and efficiency. 6. Insurance Coverage Your insurance policy and deductible can significantly influence how much you pay out of pocket. Comprehensive and collision coverage can help reduce your expenses, but if you have a high deductible, you may still need to cover a portion of the repair bill. 7. Additional Repairs and Hidden Damage Sometimes, additional damage is discovered once repairs begin. Hidden damage behind panels or under the hood can lead to unexpected costs. A thorough inspection by a trusted collision repair center can help identify these potential expenses early on. Bring Your Car to Morrow Today & Get an Honest Estimate At Morrow Collision Center, we provide detailed estimates to help you understand the cost of your auto repairs. Our experienced technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure quality repairs, getting you back on the road safely and efficiently. Contact us or visit one of our locations today to get an estimate and let us take the stress out of collision repairs!

What is an Assured Performance Certified Collision Center?

January 27, 2025

When your vehicle needs a repair, you deserve more than just a quick fix—you deserve a thorough, high-quality repair that ensures your car is safe, reliable, and ready to hit the road with confidence. Morrow Collision Center is proud to be an Assured Performance Certified Collision Center, which means we meet some of the highest standards in the auto repair industry. But what exactly does it mean to be an Assured Performance Certified Collision Center? What Does It Mean to Be Assured Performance Certified? Assured Performance is a leading certification network that partners with leading automotive manufacturers to ensure that collision repair centers meet the highest standards of quality and safety. It’s not just a title—it’s a guarantee. Collision centers that earn the Assured Performance certification have proven they meet rigorous standards for training, equipment, and customer care, ensuring that every repair is high-quality. These standards are designed to ensure that repair shops have the necessary training, equipment, and tools to properly repair vehicles and keep up with the newest advanced safety features. Why Should You Choose a Certified Collision Center? 1. Factory-Approved Repair Standards Certified centers like Morrow Collision Center follow the same repair guidelines set by the manufacturers themselves. This means that every repair is done according to the specific requirements for your make and model. From advanced technologies like aluminum body repairs to the latest safety features, they ensure that everything is restored to factory standards. 2. Highly Trained Technicians All technicians who have completed specialized training programs are up to date on the latest industry techniques and repair methods. Their expertise ensures that the repair process is as efficient and accurate as possible, with no shortcuts taken. 3. Access to the Latest Equipment and Tools Automakers are continuously innovating, which means that the tools and equipment needed for modern vehicle repairs are constantly evolving. Certified collision shops invest in state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and OEM parts to handle even the most advanced repairs, giving your vehicle the best chance of recovery after a collision. 4. Comprehensive Safety and Quality Control Safety is always a priority, and Assured Performance certified collision centers prioritize the safety of both you and your vehicle. Every repair is subject to comprehensive quality control checks, ensuring that every aspect of the repair meets strict safety and quality standards. Whether it's replacing airbags, aligning crumple zones, or recalibrating advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) , you can trust that your car will be roadworthy and safe. 5. Warranty on Repairs Assured Performance centers offer a warranty on their work, which provides you with peace of mind knowing that your vehicle’s repairs are guaranteed for a specified period. If any issues arise from the repairs, you can count on them to make it right. Why Does Certification Matter to You? At Morrow Collision Center, earning certifications like Assured Performance is our way of showing you that we are serious about providing top-tier service. As the owner of Morrow Collision Center , Dan Morrow shares this commitment: "At our body shop, earning certifications means so much more than just a title. It’s our promise to you that your vehicle will be repaired with care, precision, and the highest safety standards to protect you and your loved ones. By staying up to date with the latest tools and techniques, we ensure every repair is done right, giving you peace of mind when you’re back on the road." This promise is the foundation of our work. When your vehicle is repaired by a certified center like Morrow Collision Center, you can rest assured that your car’s safety features. are properly restored, and your vehicle will perform just like it did before the accident. The Morrow Collision Center Difference – Come to Morrow Today! In addition to our Assured Performance certification, we are proud to be a part of multiple other collision repair networks . Each of these certifications holds us to the highest standards in the industry, ensuring that we continue to provide exceptional repairs for every customer, every time. Contact us today if you’re looking for a collision center that you can trust. Our team of experts is here to help you get back on the road with confidence knowing your vehicle has been repaired with the utmost care and precision.