Did you also know that a properly working windshield can save your life? Functional, quality windshields are made to stay together when you get in an accident. Even when the glass shatters, a thin layer of vinyl holds the glass together.
So when you’re driving with a cracked windshield, you’re putting your wallet and your life at risk. However, when you get a crack or a chip in your windshield, you don’t always need to get a new one. Here is a simple guide to help you determine whether you need to repair or replace your windshield the next time it gets damaged.
Legally
Federally
The FMCSA, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, has requirements for your windshield. These apply to you if you are driving on any federal roadway. Regardless of the state that you live in. These requirements are:
- Each windshield shall be free of discoloration or damage in the area extending upward from the height of the top of the steering wheel (excluding a 51 mm (2 inches) border at the top of the windshield) and extending from a 25 mm (1 inch) border at each side of the windshield or windshield panel. Title 49: Transportation §393.60(c)
- The exceptions are as follow:
- Any crack that is not intersected by any other cracks. Title 49: Transportation §393.60(c)(2)
- Any damaged area which can be covered by a disc 19 mm ( 3⁄4 inch) in diameter if not closer than 76 mm (3 inches) to any other similarly damaged area. Title 49: Transportation §393.60(c)(3)
Colorado
Colorado has no laws regarding chips or damage to your windshield. Meaning that it’s up to your discretion whether you want to get your windshield replaced or not. However, if you’re going to drive on the interstate, you will still need to follow the federal guidelines above.
New Mexico
Similar to Colorado, New Mexico does not have any specific windshield safety laws about damaged windshields. Yet, you will need to follow the FMCSA’s guidelines to operate your vehicle on I-10, I-25, or I-40.
Arizona
Arizona has no formal laws about windshield damage. However, they do encourage you to get it fixed. Arizona is one of the six states with a windshield replacement law. Meaning if you’re insured with comprehensive coverage in Arizona, your insurance company has to provide full coverage for a windshield replacement. If the damage is not deemed to be your fault, they are not allowed to raise your rates.
Utah
Utah requires an annual safety inspection on your vehicle, and a safe windshield is required. Their laws are similar to Federal mandates. They say you need to replace your windshield if any of the following apply:
- The windshield has cracks within 6 inches of the molding.
- The windshield has cracks that intersect.
- The windshield has a bullseye greater than ¾” in diameter.
- The windshield has multiple damaged areas within a 3-inch radius.
Our Recommendation
Of course, we recommend replacing your windshield if there is any sort of damage that compromises your safety. Here is Durango ABRA’s replace VS repair breakdown put in a handy table for you:
| Repair | Replace | |
| Visibility | Does not obstruct visibility | Does obstruct visibility |
| Damage Depth | Only the outer layer is damaged | Outer & inner layer are damaged |
| Crack Length | Shorter than 12 inches | Longer than 12 inches |
| Bullseye Size | Smaller than 1 Inch | Larger than 1.5 inches |
| Position | Crack or chip is not close to the edge of the glass. | Crack or chip is close to the edge of the glass |
So if any of these factors apply to you, give us a call. Our collision center, ABRA, will be happy to come to you to repair your windshield at your convenience.
