If you have been in an accident or have otherwise shattered/cracked your windshield in some way, the first thing to do is stay calm. There is a good chance that auto glass specialists will be able to fix your car up in no time, at little cost to you, if your insurance covers it. Here's a guide to everything you need to know about auto glass services, whether you are in a pickle at the moment or just want to know for future reference.
Vehicle Glass Service Repairs
First, it is important to make sure that you call your insurance company to have someone appraise the damage. Insurance companies do this because they need to know how much damage is done to the vehicle. If your windshield is cracked, they usually provide a certain amount of money toward getting it fixed over your deductible. However, if all of the glass in your car is shattered and there is additional damage from an accident or other incident, your car may be considered "totaled," which typically means that you will be able to buy a new vehicle.
If it turns out that you do need the glass repaired, shop around for a professional and reliable auto glass repair company. Doing some research online can help you find out which companies have been in business for a long time, if past customers have been satisfied with prices and if they do a good job. Be sure to choose a business with certified technicians to ensure professional-caliber repairs.
Many of the best companies offer mobile service, which means they will come to you and fix the windshield. You can often get a quote online to find out how much it costs, and it can take as little as one hour to drive away with your brand new windshield.
Auto Glass and Safety
One of the reasons why it's so important for you to hire trained technicians for the job is because the correct placement and adherence of your windshield is a safety concern. Many modern cars actually use the windshield to support the overall structure of the front of the car, which means that it can protect passengers against injury during collision, as well as during rollovers or air bag deployment. Certified technicians use special adhesives that dry quickly and keep your windshield perfectly in place.
Caring for Your Auto Glass
If you have a crack in your windshield, get it looked at by a professional. If your glass is foggy or hard to see through, consider changing the windshield wipers and frequently washing the glass. Making sure wiper fluid is full at all times is another easy step you can take toward having pristine glass and, thus, driving safely.
