Cracked Windshield Laws

CrackedWindshieldLaws.com aims to provide accurate and updated information on cracked windshield laws in United States. Each state has different laws, rules, regulations and guidelines and we are dedicated to providing easy to understand information about cracked windows for each of the 50 states.

We provide generic state cracked and obstructed windshield information, but every city, district or county may have its own specific restrictions, exemptions or regulations. You should verify our information yourself with your local DMV, Department of Transportation, highway patrol, or other law enforcement authorities.

Cracked Windshield Laws For Your State:

Simply click your state of residence above and we’ll present you with all necessary and relevant cracked window laws. We constantly update the information we provide to make sure it is up to date but in the event you notice any incorrect data please let us know via our contact page.

All motor vehicles must comply with certain laws and regulations in each state. Please note that while we at CrackedWindshieldLaws.com do our very best to provide you with easy-to-read data from state laws, we will not be held responsible for any potential inaccuracies or misinterpretation of vehicle code. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracy and refer to your city or county laws to ensure driving with cracked windshield is legal.

Additionally if you want to learn more about window cracks be sure to take a look at our informative articles provided. We can help you learn how to repair window cracks by yourself, how much window repair costs, or how to save money and make your insurance company pay for it. If you have any questions for us or would like us to publish more comprehensive articles about any car window topic be sure to let us know!

Cracked Windshield Frequently Asked Questions and Facts

We included a few brief answers to some of your most asked questions about car windows. If you’re considering repairing or replacing windshield on your car we advise you to not only consult pertinent laws but also educate yourself about why the laws are made as they are.

Can I fight a cracked window ticket?

Every state has different laws, and in most states cracks on windows are not clearly defined in size or type. It is usually up to each individual police officer to determine if your cracked or broken windshield is against the law.

Obstructed windshield laws are vastly different in all parts of United States. We are unable to provide generic information on how to fight a traffic ticket, as it depends on a case-by-case basis. If you want to fight a traffic ticket or citation for cracked car windows please consult an attorney for professional legal help, before you incur additional legal costs.

To get quick advice about your specific case and state we recommend asking our partnered legal experts here. Traffic lawyers from all of United States are available day and night and happy to answer any legal questions you may have.

What are federal regulations for cracked windows?

Federal regulations for cracked windows are explained here in more details. To summarize, U.S. federal regulations allow cracks or chips smaller than ¾-inch in diameter, but they must not be located within 3″ of another crack. No windscreen cracks are allowed directly in driver’s view.

All states must adhere to these federal regulations, but many have enacted more detailed and specific laws and regulation concerning window cracks.

Does car insurance cover windshield replacement?

Several states have laws mandating car insurance companies to pay for all windshield repairs and replacement. However in majority of states you will have to purchase comprehensive car insurance policy to potentially cover any window repair or replacement.

For more information about which states have windshield insurance or if you need to pay a deductible or not see our windshield insurance article.

How much to fix a cracked windshield?

Fixing a cracked windshield can cost as little as $10 if you purchase a DIY window repair kit. Costs are typically around $30-$50 if you have a professional glass repair shop do the work. Window crack repair can cost up to $100 in case of many cracks. See more detailed breakdown of window crack fixing costs.

How much to replace a cracked windshield?

Replacing a cracked windshield costs roughly $450-$550. This includes the cost of labor and new windshield. Exact cost can vary depending on vehicle type among other things. See our Windshield Replacement Cost article for a more detailed breakdown of costs.

Is it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield?

In some states any crack on your windshield is illegal to drive with. In majority of states small cracks outside of driver’s direct view are permitted. For more details see our pages for each state to learn exact laws and regulations pertaining to cracked windshields.

Can you get pulled over for cracked windshield?

If your windshield crack is very visible, you may get pulled over by police for violating vehicle equipment regulations.

Can you get traffic ticket for cracked windshield?

Small cracks outside of driver’s direct view of the road may be permitted depending on your state. Laws in majority of states do not specifically define how large cracks need to be, so it’s often up to each individual police officer to determine whether you broke the law.

You will most certainly get a ticket in case windshield cracks are large or directly in front of the vehicle driver. Cracked window is a moving violation or traffic infraction, and exact financial penalty depends on your state.

Is driving with cracked windshield safe or dangerous?

Small cracks less than one inch in diameter and not directly in driver’s line of sight are generally considered safe. Larger cracks or even a greater number of smaller ones are considered unsafe for two reasons. First, cracks can obstruct driver’s clear view of the road. Second, windshield glass is ensuring your roof doesn’t collapse in a rollover wreck, and cracks and chips can make the windshield withstand less force and is therefore dangerous.

Will a cracked windshield pass inspection?

Annual inspection in most states includes a check for windshield cracks. Your vehicle can pass inspection even with a cracked windshield. Some states completely prohibit driving with any cracks in windshield, so ensure you repair or replace your windshield prior to inspection.

Will a cracked windshield shatter?

Cracked windshield can shatter more easily than a non-cracked one. All cracks make windows weaker and even driving over potholes can be enough to cause it to shatter. It is recommended to fix your windshield as soon as possible after a crack occurs. Our How to stop windshield cracks from spreading article has a few helpful tips and tricks which ensure your windshield cracks do not spread or cause the windshield to shatter.

Can you repair cracked windshield with bug spray?

No. Use proper window crack repair kits for do-it-yourself window crack fixing, or bring your car to professionals. You should not use bug sprays, vinegar, or similar “tools” for fixing cracks. Super glue is frequently used a temporary measure, but it is not recommended as it will have to be removed before proper repairs can be done, which can substantially increase your windshield repair costs.

Use clear, transparent tape to temporarily prevent dirt or water from entering cracks before they can be properly repaired.

To learn more about cracked windshields and other vehicle equipment laws be sure to visit our articles archive. If you require legal advice you can find out how to get immediate answers on our legal help page!