DWTA shares pointer on what to do when the windshield suddenly breaks
Can a windshield suddenly break or collapse? What could happen if this will suddenly take place? What does it take for a windshield to suddenly collapse? These are just some of the questions that the Detroit Windshield Technician’s Association has answered in one of the local media interviews with them that discussed the topic.
DWTA President Peter Kinley says upon hearing about such an unfortunate accident, or even watching a video of a shattering windshield shared over social media people will be curious whether this could really happen even without a bump or collision. “We want to let vehicle owners know whether windshields can just suddenly break and the possible reasons for a spontaneous breakage. These are crucial information that can help them avoid accidents,” says Kinley.
The website YourMechanic has mentioned that there are several reasons why a windshield could suddenly break or shatter. Some of the reasons it cited are cracks or chip in the windshield that had suddenly been aggravated during the journey, improper installation, and misalignment. In the web post, the author likewise explained that extreme cold during the winter should not affect auto glass unless the windscreens have been compromised as well.
“Extreme cold temperatures cause everything to contract. Metal, rubber, sealant, and even glass are subject to expansion and contraction in any temperature difference. When your glass is exposed to extreme cold, there won’t be a problem if your glass is in good condition and installed correctly. Even though the glass will contract at a different rate than the metal, the sealant that holds the window has enough flexibility to allow the windshield to maintain its integrity. There is more stress on the glass, but its structure is able to withstand the pressure.”
The full discussion can be found in the original post here.
Safety Considerations
In its entry about windshields, WikiPedia explains that in the event the windshield suddenly cracks and shatters it is meant to not collapse right away.
“Almost all nations now require windshields to stay in one piece even if broken, except if pierced by a strong force. Properly installed automobile windshields are also essential to safety; along with the roof of the car, they provide protection to the vehicle's occupants in the case of a roll-over accident. Today’s windshields are a safety device just like seatbelts and airbags.[citation needed] The urethane sealant is protected from UV in sunlight by a band of dark dots around the edge of the windshield. The darkened edge transitions to the clear windshield with smaller dots to minimize thermal stress in manufacturing.”
Check out the full explanation here.
When it happens
Car Blog AutoIndustriya.com meanwhile published the experience of a driver whose windshield cracked and almost shattered while driving. The driver shared that while driving on a highway, the gas flap of the vehicle in front of him has been dislodged, and directly flew into his windscreen. As such, he shared some safety tips for other drivers based from his experience. Auto Glass Safety Council
“If you’re driving and suddenly find yourself with a shattered windshield, don’t panic. Apply the brakes gently to slow down the car. Do not stand on the brakes as this may cause a pile-up with the cars behind you. Check your mirrors to see if there are vehicles to either side. If it is clear, slowly make your way to the side of the road. If you can’t see ahead, roll down your window and peer out the side. If there are no vehicles to your right, turn on your indicator and slowly make your way to the side. Avoid stopping your vehicle in the inner lane as this is the overtaking lane and will leave you vulnerable to fast moving vehicles.”
Read more here.
The Detroit-based organization of windshield technicians emphasizes that a shattering windshield is indeed a possibility when the auto glass has been compromised.