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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Understanding Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

March 21, 2025

Modern vehicles are smarter and safer than ever, thanks to Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Features like lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking help prevent accidents—but what happens when a vehicle equipped with ADAS is involved in a collision? The repair process has changed drastically in recent years, and it’s important for vehicle owners to understand ADAS and how these safety features impact collision repairs. What is ADAS? ADAS refers to a suite of safety technologies designed to assist drivers in avoiding accidents. These systems rely on sensors, cameras, and radar to monitor surroundings and react to potential hazards. Common ADAS features include: Lane Keep Assist – Gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if drifting occurs. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) – Applies brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision. Blind Spot Monitoring – Alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spots. Adaptive Cruise Control – Adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert – Warns drivers of approaching traffic when backing up. Why ADAS Makes Collision Repairs More Complex When a vehicle with ADAS is involved in an accident, even a minor fender bender can disrupt these sensitive systems. Unlike traditional repairs that focused mainly on structural damage, modern collision repairs require precise calibration and diagnostics to ensure these safety features function correctly. 1. Specialized Repair Procedures Repairing ADAS-equipped vehicles requires manufacturer-specific procedures to prevent system malfunctions. A simple bumper replacement or windshield repair might seem straightforward, but if a radar sensor or camera is misaligned by even a fraction of an inch, it can lead to major safety risks. 2. Calibration is Critical After repairs, ADAS components must be recalibrated to ensure they function as intended. There are two types of ADAS calibration: Static Calibration – Performed in a controlled shop environment using specialized tools and targets. Dynamic Calibration – Requires driving the vehicle in specific conditions to reset ADAS sensors properly. Failing to calibrate ADAS systems correctly can cause them to malfunction or provide false warnings, putting the driver and others at risk. 3. Increased Repair Costs Due to the advanced technology involved, ADAS repairs can be more expensive than traditional collision repairs. The need for specialized equipment, software updates, and trained technicians means that repairing an ADAS-equipped vehicle often requires more time and expertise. How Morrow Collision Center Ensures Safe ADAS Repairs At Morrow Collision Center , we stay ahead of the curve by using the latest ADAS calibration technology. When you bring your vehicle to us, you can expect: Certified Technicians who understand the complexities of ADAS repairs. Advanced Calibration Equipment to ensure sensors, cameras, and radars are perfectly aligned. Manufacturer-Approved Repair Methods to restore your vehicle’s safety features. Thorough Post-Repair Testing to confirm that your ADAS systems work as intended. Trust Morrow Collision Center for Expert ADAS Repairs If your vehicle has been in an accident, don’t trust just any repair shop to get it back on the road safely. At Morrow Collision Center, we understand the intricacies of ADAS and ensure every car repair is done right. Contact us today to schedule your auto repair and let our experts restore your vehicle’s safety systems with precision and care.

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!