What to do if you have a chipped windscreen

Key points

• Windscreen damage can result from road debris, such as stones and gravel, as well as sudden temperature changes and structural weaknesses due to poor installation

• Driving with a cracked windscreen that obstructs the driver's view is illegal, with potential fines or points on the driver's license

• Car insurance policies, especially comprehensive cover, often cover windscreen repair costs without affecting the no-claims bonus, though terms and deductibles vary

What causes a cracked or chipped windscreen?

• A common cause is the impact from road debris like stones and gravel, which are often flung up by the tyres of vehicles ahead and can strike the windscreen with significant force

• Sudden temperature changes can create stress fractures in the glass. This typically happens when there's a rapid shift from cold to hot, or vice versa. Such changes cause the material to expand or contract abruptly

• Poor installation or inherent structural weaknesses in the windscreen can also contribute to its susceptibility to damage

These flaws might not be visible but can drastically reduce the resilience of the glass to everyday stresses.

Is it legal to drive with a cracked windscreen?

In the UK, laws stipulate that any impairment to the driver's vision due to windscreen damage can lead to penalties. This may include fines or points on your licence.

For that reason, it's crucial to assess whether the crack obstructs your view of the road. If it does, it's not only unsafe but also illegal.

If you're unsure about the severity of a crack, consulting a professional is wise. They can determine if your windscreen's condition is a minor inconvenience or a legal liability.

Get up to speed with what to do in the immediate aftermath of a car accident with our one-stop guide.

Does car insurance cover chipped or cracked windscreens?

When you find a chip or crack in your windscreen, you may worry about repair costs. Here's how your car insurance might assist:

• Type of insurance policy: Insurance policies vary in handling windscreen damage, so it's essential to check if your policy includes windscreen cover. Usually, third-party policies do not cover this, but comprehensive policies may

• Comprehensive coverage: Many comprehensive car insurance policies include windscreen repair as standard. This coverage typically does not affect your no-claims bonus

• Deductibles explained: If your policy covers windscreen damage, a deductible might still apply. This is the amount you contribute towards the repair before your insurance takes over. Deductibles differ, so knowing your policy's terms is crucial to avoid unexpected costs

Will claiming for a chipped or cracked windscreen affect my no claims?

When you find a chip or crack in your windscreen, you might worry if it affects your no-claims bonus.

Fortunately, most insurers do not penalise you for such claims and understand the need for quick windscreen repairs.

However, it's vital to check your insurance policy details.

Each insurer has different rules. While many include windscreen repair as a standard feature, some have specific conditions or exceptions. So make sure you always review your policy to know what is covered.

Look out for exceptions that might impact your no-claims status, such as limits on claims per year or repair location requirements.

Can a chipped windscreen be repaired?

When faced with a chipped windscreen, many drivers question if they can repair it without a full replacement. The feasibility of repairing rather than replacing depends on several factors:

• Size and location of the chip: Small chips not in the driver's line of sight can often be repaired. If the chip is smaller than a £2 coin, it might be fixable. However, chips directly in the driver's view usually necessitate a new windscreen for safety and legal compliance

• Modern repair techniques: Technological advances have introduced efficient methods to mend windscreens. Special resins injected into the chip restore the glass's structural integrity and clarity, making the damage nearly invisible

• Necessity of replacement: Despite the best repair efforts, some situations still require a full windscreen replacement. This is especially true for larger cracks, those that have spread significantly, or chips at the windscreen's edge, as these can compromise the glass's structural safety

Understanding these points can help drivers make informed decisions about whether to repair or replace a chipped windscreen, potentially saving time and money.