Pebble Hit My Windshield: Instant Solutions and Repair Options

One of the most shocking and threatening situations a car owner or driver can experience is a pebble striking your windshield on the road.

Though a widespread event, such situations necessitate instant and appropriate response for safety purposes and damage prevention. Flying pebbles may cause chips or cracks and further weaken the structural strength of your vehicle.

Here is a guide that focuses on what to do right away, how to seek professional aid, and prevent a ‘pebble hit my windshield‘ scenario in the future, especially during highway traveling. We will discuss:

• Instant actions that will help you deal with a pebble hit windshield situation.
• Temporary solutions to inhibit cracks on the windshield
• Criteria for seeking professional windshield repair & replacement
• Precautionary actions against future damages

Action to Take When a Pebble Hits the Windshield

In case a pebble hits your windshield, here are some appropriate measures that you must take instantly to stay safe and prevent damage:

1. Keep Your Calm: Hold the steering wheel firmly in place, stay focused on the road, and do not abruptly jerk the vehicle.
2. Check Damage Immediately: Pull over to a safe location, inspect the windshield, estimate the size, depth, and location of any chip or crack, and assess the kind of repair needed.
3. Document the Damage: Take clear photos of the damage using your phone’s camera from various angles. They can prove helpful when processing an insurance claim.
4. Avoid Temperature Changes: Glass expands and contracts with temperature variations. Do not spray the crack directly with an air conditioner or defroster, as this might spread the damage further.
5. Prepare for Quick Repair: Before a small chip turns into a big crack, call an AutoGlass repair & replacement expert such as NuVision Auto Glass for advice and action.

Instant Fixes to Prevent the Crack from Expanding

There are preliminary fixes that can help you stabilize the damage and prevent it from getting worse:

1. Use Clear Nail Polish or Super Glue 

Clean the chipped area and fix it by spreading a thin layer of clear nail polish or super glue on the chip or crack. It offers a seal that protects debris and prevents further moisture.

2. Use a Windshield Repair Kit 

Always keep a repair kit handy containing resin that can be injected into the chip or crack. Fill the area to stabilize the glass until you get professional assistance.

3. Apply Clear Tape

Stick clear tape over the crack to prevent dirt and moisture from penetrating it and causing further breakage.

4. Avoid Rough Roads 

Driving on bumpy roads can create vibrations that will worsen the crack. Drive on smooth roads and slow down.

When to Call in the Professionals

Here are situations when you must seek professional assistance to repair the pebble hit windshield.

Top services like NuVision Auto Glass offer mobile windshield replacement services, which means that whether you are stuck on a highway or anywhere else, the professionals will reach you and process the necessary windshield or side window repair & replacement:

• Check Size and Depth of Damage: Damage that is bigger or deeper will compromise the structural integrity of the windshield and usually cannot be properly repaired using DIY methods.
• Location of Damage: Damage that falls within the driver’s line of vision can compromise visibility and is a safety hazard. Cracks near the edges of the windshield are also problematic, as they can compromise the structural integrity of the glass.
• Multiple Chips or Cracks: Numerous damages can reduce the strength of the windshield and compromise the strength of the glass. In this case, you must consider professional repair or replacement.
• ADAS Calibration: ADAS systems are integrated into most new cars and work by sensors and cameras mounted on the windshield. In case of windshield repair & replacement, you need ADAS calibration, which certified experts can help you with.

Precautionary Actions to Avoid ‘Pebble Hit My Windshield’ Situation

There are a few steps one must take to prevent damages while on the highway:

1. Maintain adequate following distance between your car and others to minimize the chances of trash being thrown into your windshield.
2. Apply a windshield protection film that easily absorbs the momentum of small stones or debris and prevents chips and cracking. These films also come with UV protection, which can preserve vehicle interiors.
3. Minimize driving in the lanes next to construction zones and areas with loose gravel.
4. Avoid driving behind cars that carry loose materials or vehicles that travel along poorly maintained roads.
5. Keep mud flaps fitted and check if the tires are well-inflated.

Conclusion

Dealing with a situation where a pebble hits the windshield can be easy if you have the right knowledge. Take immediate action, employ quick fixes, and contact professionals to ensure the safety of your vehicle and visibility on the road.

For professional AutoGlass repair & replacement, mobile windshield replacement service, and ADAS calibration, rely on NuVision Auto Glass.

Get in touch today to schedule your windshield repair & replacement and get back on the road with confidence!

FAQs

What to do when a pebble hits your windshield?

If a pebble hits your windshield, stay calm and note the damage. If you see a chip or crack, photograph it. Do not subject the area to extreme temperature fluctuations, and cover it with tape or nail polish until you get it repaired.

Who is liable to pay if a pebble strikes your windshield?

The company or driver might be liable if the windshield damage is caused by another vehicle, such as a truck carrying gravel. However, if road debris causes windshield damage, the vehicle owner is liable for the repairs.

Can a small pebble crack a windshield?

Yes! A small pebble can easily chip or crack the windshield, especially if it impacts it at high speed. If left uncorrected, the changes in temperature and vibrations can eventually cause the windshield to expand.

Does insurance cover windshield damage from rocks?

Many auto insurance policies include windshield damage under comprehensive coverage. Depending on your plan, your insurance will cover windshield or side window repair & replacement without a deductible. Check your policy to learn more.