A stone hit your windshield? Here’s what to do

Getting hit by a stone on the windscreen while driving is a more common situation than it may seem and, despite the initial scare, it does not always mean a major expense. The most important thing is to stay calm and act quickly, because a small mark can turn into a significant crack in a short time if it is not dealt with.

What to do right after the impact

As soon as the stone hits the glass, there is one simple step that can prevent bigger problems. Placing a piece of transparent adhesive tape over the point of impact helps prevent dust, water and other impurities from getting in, increasing the chances of an effective and almost invisible repair.

At the same time, you should avoid sudden changes in temperature. Turning the air conditioning on full blast or directing hot air at the glass can quickly make the crack worse. Thermal shock is often the main reason why a small chip turns into a large crack.

The role of car insurance

Before thinking about costs, it is worth checking your policy. In Portugal, many insurance policies include Isolated Glass Breakage cover, which allows the windscreen to be repaired or replaced at no cost and, in most cases, without affecting the no-claims bonus.

A simple call to the insurer can quickly clarify whether you are covered and what steps to follow, avoiding unnecessary expenses.

Repair or replace: what changes?

Not all damage requires the glass to be replaced. When the mark is small and outside the driver’s field of vision, repair is usually enough. It is a quick process, often completed in around half an hour, and allows the original glass to be kept.

However, when the crack is larger, is growing, or is located in the direct line of vision, replacement becomes the safest option. In these cases, delaying the intervention can compromise visibility and the structural strength of the windscreen.

Practical and quick solutions

Nowadays, solving this type of problem is simple. Companies such as Carglass, Glassdrive or ExpressGlass have agreements with insurers and offer fast services, often with on-site assistance.

This means that, in many cases, the glass can be repaired at home or at the workplace, without complications or wasted time.

Pay attention to safety and legal consequences

Driving with a damaged windscreen is not just an aesthetic issue. If the crack affects visibility, it may be considered an offence and result in a fine.

In addition, during the mandatory periodic inspection, a glass with damage in the driver’s field of vision results in immediate failure, requiring the problem to be resolved before going back on the road.

It is better to act early

A small stone may seem like a minor problem, but ignoring it can become costly. What can be solved today with a simple and quick repair may, in just a few days, turn into a full glass replacement.

Acting quickly not only protects your wallet, but also guarantees your safety behind the wheel.

Sources: General Tranquilidade, Volvo Cars, Carglass, ExpressGlass, GlassDrive