3 Safe-Driving Tips That Minimize the Risk of Windshield Damage
A new vehicle is a huge investment, and you want to keep your ride in great shape for many years to get the most out of your money. Unfortunately, accidents sometimes occur and cause windshield damage that diminishes the value of your new ride. Using these three tips can minimize the risk of incurring windshield damage while driving so you keep your car in top shape for many years.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Maintaining a safe following distance is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of rear-ending the vehicle in front of you. It is also a great way to reduce the risk of damaging your windshield. Even after buying a new Chevrolet for sale, you could immediately chip the windshield by following too closely behind a car that kicks a rock up off the road.
You can keep your windshield safe from premature damage by staying at least a few hundred feet behind the vehicle driving in front of you. Use more distance for large trucks carrying potential road hazards.
Make Temperature Changes Gradually
While windshields are relatively durable, they are still susceptible to cracking when exposed to quick and extreme temperature changes. When the temperature dips and cold snaps hit, most people want to warm their cars up as quickly as possible to improve comfort while driving. This practice may help your body maintain a comfortable temperature, but it places stress on your windshield that could lead to cracking.
It’s a much better idea to make temperature changes gradually. When you first get into your car on a chilly morning, turn the heat on low and give it a few minutes to warm up. You can bump up the heat incrementally for the first few minutes of your drive. By increasing the heat gradually, you put less of a strain on your windshield and are less likely to cause it to crack prematurely.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Many accidents that result in windshield damage are not caused by collisions but rather by road hazards. Even something as simple as a small pebble being kicked up by the tires of the vehicle in front of you can cause your windshield to crack. When this happens, it’s important to take immediate action to seal the crack before it gets bigger and threatens to shatter your entire windshield.
Staying aware of your surroundings can help you avoid potential road hazards. If you must travel on a gravel road, drive slowly to reduce the risk of showering your car with small stones. Avoid driving under low-hanging tree branches or traveling directly behind large trucks carrying gravel, dirt, or trash.
Change Your Driving Habits To Protect Your Vehicle
Your driving habits have a direct impact on the condition of your new vehicle. By practicing safe driving habits, you can keep your car running smoothly and minimize the risk of having a minor accident that results in windshield damage. Use these three tips to protect your car from premature and untimely damage.
