Guide
What Should You Do If Your Windshield Cracks?
It's startling when a rock hits the glass or a crack appears out of nowhere — but you have time to handle it calmly. Here's what to do.
If it happens while you're driving
- Don't panic or brake hard. A crack doesn't mean the glass is about to fail. Keep both hands on the wheel and stay in your lane.
- Ease off the gas and let your speed come down gradually.
- Pull over when it's safe — an exit, shoulder, or parking lot away from traffic on roads like I-35E (Stemmons Freeway) or I-635 (LBJ Freeway).
- Inspect from outside the car. Note the size, where it is, and whether it's in your line of sight.
- Avoid touching loose glass. If anything has shattered, keep clear of the fragments.
When you can keep driving — and when you shouldn't
Usually okay to drive briefly: a single chip or a short crack off to the side, outside your direct view. Get it repaired soon before it grows.
Stop and arrange service: a crack across your line of sight, a long or spreading crack, an edge crack, or glass that's sagging, bulging, or shattered. Driving on that is a safety and legal risk.
Protect it until the repair
- Park in shade and avoid blasting AC or heat directly at the glass — temperature swings spread cracks fast in Texas.
- Put clear tape over a fresh chip to keep dirt and water out (short-term only).
- Avoid rough roads, potholes, and slamming the doors.
Repair or replacement?
We'll give you an honest call. Small, shallow damage away from the edge and your view can often be repaired; bigger or in-view damage usually needs replacement.
A quick note on insurance
In Texas, windshield damage is generally handled under comprehensive coverage, and some policies include low- or zero-deductible glass coverage. Check with your insurer about your specific policy — and we can help you check and file.