7 Steps to Take Right After Your Windshield Cracks

That sharp snap across the glass always seems to come out of nowhere. One minute everything looks fine, and the next a spiderweb crack spreads across the windshield like it owns the road. When that happens, instinct tells most people to keep driving and deal with it later. But knowing the right steps to take right after your windshield cracks can be the difference between a minor repair and a major replacement.

This breakdown covers the key actions drivers should take immediately, based on professional windshield repair knowledge and everyday experience. Each step helps prevent further damage and ensures safety isn’t compromised. Here’s how to keep that crack from growing, and what to do before it spirals into something worse.

1. Stay calm after windshield crack

Panic only makes the situation more distracting, and distraction on the road is already a major hazard. In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported over 3,500 deaths related to distracted driving. A cracked windshield doesn’t need to become part of that statistic. When the glass suddenly splits, keep a steady grip and maintain full awareness of your surroundings.

• Pull over when it’s safe, not while in motion
• Take a deep breath to avoid rash decisions
• Remind passengers to stay calm and quiet

One technician recalled a situation where a driver hit a rock on the freeway and panicked, jerking the wheel. The crack was the least of the problem. Staying composed keeps control where it belongs.

2. Inspect windshield crack safely

Once stopped, assess the crack without putting pressure on the glass. It’s tempting to tap or press around it to “see how bad it is,” but even slight force can cause it to spread. Visibility is also important—if it impairs the driver’s view, it could be legally unsafe to continue.

• Look for any signs of spreading
• Measure the crack’s length with a card or finger for reference
• Avoid pressing, poking, or rubbing near the crack

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) states that cracks longer than ¾ inch in certain locations may fail inspection. Knowing what you’re dealing with early helps shape the next decision.

3. Avoid driving with cracked windshield

Once the glass has cracked, the structural strength is compromised. That doesn’t mean it’ll collapse immediately, but the risk rises with every bump, vibration, or temperature swing. Some states also have laws about driving with windshield damage in the driver’s line of sight.

• Vibrations from driving expand cracks
• Potholes and sharp turns stress the damaged glass
• Moisture or dust can enter and worsen the crack mid-drive

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, windshields provide up to 45% of a vehicle’s structural integrity in a head-on collision and up to 60% in a rollover. Driving on a damaged one isn’t worth the risk.

4. Protect windshield from moisture

Water is a quiet enemy of cracked glass. Once it seeps into the crack, it can settle between layers and freeze or expand. Using clear packing tape or even plastic wrap can help keep out moisture and dirt temporarily until professional help is available.

• Cover the crack with tape that’s clean and dry
• Avoid washing the car until repair is done
• Park in a garage or under cover if possible

A U.S. Department of Energy study on thermal changes in glass showed that moisture trapped inside layers of glass can increase expansion stress when heated. Sealing it off quickly keeps things stable longer.

5. Prevent pressure on cracked glass

Glass under pressure responds unpredictably, especially when already compromised. Slamming doors, cranking the AC, or parking in direct sunlight can turn a hairline crack into something far worse. Even loud bass from a subwoofer can create enough vibration to do damage.

• Close car doors gently to reduce internal pressure shifts
• Avoid blasting hot air or cold AC directly on the windshield
• Keep the vehicle on smooth, flat surfaces if possible

Automotive engineers have noted that cabin air pressure spikes slightly when doors shut, especially in sealed vehicles. That spike is enough to jolt a stressed crack into spreading.

6. Check insurance for windshield repair

Not all insurance policies treat glass claims the same way. Some include full glass coverage, while others bundle it with collision or comprehensive. Acting quickly helps ensure the damage is documented early and within policy requirements.

• Call the insurance provider to verify coverage
• Take clear photos of the crack for documentation
• File the claim before any spreading occurs

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recommends policyholders read their declarations page for “glass deductible” or “comprehensive coverage” to know what’s included. Early checks avoid billing surprises.

7. Schedule professional windshield repair fast

Once safe and covered, getting a professional repair should happen quickly. The longer the wait, the more the crack risks spreading or allowing contamination that prevents clean bonding. Some services offer mobile repairs or same-day appointments.

• Cracks under 6 inches are often fixable without replacement
• Delaying may require full glass replacement instead
• Professional repair typically takes less than 30 minutes

The Auto Glass Safety Council recommends repair within 24 hours of the damage when possible. That time frame helps preserve the windshield’s integrity and appearance.

Key Takeaways for What to Do After a Windshield Cracks

A cracked windshield might start with a single line, but its impact can quickly ripple outward. The decisions made in those first few hours matter more than most drivers realize. Small preventative steps reduce risk, control repair costs, and keep the vehicle safe. Letting the problem linger never works in your favor.

• Staying calm prevents additional mistakes or overreactions
• Avoiding movement and pressure buys valuable time
• Moisture and temperature shifts are silent threats to cracked glass
• Insurance and fast scheduling protect both wallet and windshield

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cracked windshield get worse overnight?
Yes. Changes in temperature, especially from night to morning, can cause the glass to expand and contract, spreading the crack without any physical contact.

What kind of tape is safe for a cracked windshield?
Clear packing tape or painter’s tape can be used in dry conditions. It should cover the crack without overlapping onto undamaged glass.

Is it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield?
In some states, yes—especially if the crack is in the driver’s line of sight. State traffic laws vary, so it’s best to check local regulations.

Does a small crack always mean full replacement?
No. Cracks under 6 inches that aren’t in the driver’s view are often repairable by a professional, provided they’re addressed early.

Why not use a DIY windshield repair kit right away?
Without professional tools or curing equipment, DIY fixes may not bond correctly, leaving the crack unstable or even worse than before.