A cracked windscreen might seem like a small issue, but it can raise legal concerns and safety risks for drivers. Knowing the rules around windscreen cracks in the UK and understanding the impact on road safety can help you stay legal and safe. In this article, we’ll explain the laws, safety risks, and what to do if you discover a crack in your windscreen.
Legal Requirements For Windscreen Cracks In The UK
Driving with a cracked windscreen can lead to legal issues, fines, or even a failed MOT. Understanding the laws can help you avoid trouble and keep your car roadworthy.
What The Law Says About Windscreen Condition
In the UK, it is a legal requirement to keep your windscreen in good condition to ensure safe driving. Driving with a damaged windscreen can result in fines, points on your licence, or even a failed MOT. Windscreen cracks are treated seriously because they can obstruct your view or weaken the structure of your vehicle.
Size & Location Of Cracks
The law specifies how big and where a crack can be before it becomes illegal. The windscreen is divided into two main zones:
- Zone A: This is a 290mm wide strip directly in the driver’s line of sight. Any crack or chip larger than 10mm in this zone is considered a legal issue.
- Other Areas: In the remaining parts of the windscreen, cracks or chips up to 40mm are allowed. Anything larger is deemed unsafe and could result in penalties.
If your windscreen damage falls outside these limits, your vehicle could be considered unfit for the road.
MOT & Windscreen Damage
During an MOT test, the examiner will check for any damage that affects your visibility. Windscreen cracks in Zone A or larger cracks in other areas can cause your vehicle to fail. Keeping your windscreen in good condition is not just about legality but also about ensuring you pass your MOT without issues.
How Windscreen Cracks Affect Safety
A cracked windscreen isn’t just a legal concern—it can also compromise your safety. Cracks weaken the glass and can obstruct your view, increasing the chances of an accident.
Obstructed Visibility
Even small cracks can distort your view of the road. This becomes especially dangerous in low light, heavy rain, or bright sunlight, where glare or reflections can make it harder to see. A clear view of the road is vital for safe driving, and cracks compromise that.
Weakened Structural Support
Your windscreen is an important part of your car’s structure. It helps maintain the strength of the vehicle’s body and plays a key role in airbags deploying correctly. A cracked windscreen is weaker and less able to absorb impact during a collision, increasing the risk of injury.
Risks In Extreme Conditions
Driving with a cracked windscreen in extreme weather can worsen the damage. For example, rapid temperature changes—such as using hot water to defrost in winter or parking in direct sunlight on a hot day—can cause the crack to spread suddenly. This increases the risk of the windscreen shattering while driving.
What To Do If You Discover A Windscreen Crack
If you spot a crack in your windscreen, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.
Take Action Immediately
Small cracks can grow over time, especially if exposed to vibrations from driving or sudden temperature changes. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious damage and higher repair costs.
Temporary Measures To Prevent Spreading
If you can’t get the crack repaired straight away, there are a few temporary measures you can take:
- Cover the crack with clear tape to keep out dirt and moisture, which can make the damage worse.
- Drive gently and avoid rough roads or slamming doors, as these actions can make the crack spread.
Seek Professional Repairs Or Replacement
The best solution for a cracked windscreen is to contact a professional repair service. Many small cracks can be fixed quickly and at a lower cost than replacing the entire windscreen. However, if the crack is too large or located in a critical area, a replacement may be necessary to ensure your safety and comply with the law.
Contact Able Windscreens For Help
If you’ve noticed a crack in your windscreen, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact Able Windscreens today for reliable repairs or replacements. Our team can help you get back on the road safely and with peace of mind.
