No, You're Not Paranoid: Jack Frost Does Want To Shred Your Windshield
Old Jack Frost loves to destroy windshields. Even if you do everything right this winter, your windshield could end up in bits and pieces. Here's what you should know about some of the ways winter shreds windshields.
1) The Ice Missile.
This enemy of your windshield is so evil, there are laws against ice missiles. That's correct. In some places, if you don't remove ice chunks and snow from the top of your vehicle, you can be fined close to a thousand dollars.
Those chunks of ice can be lethal at driving speeds, and have shredded windshields in Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Halifax.
No place is safe if there has been any ice or snow accumulating on vehicles. Be sure to clean the top of your car before any winter trip, or you could be charged with negligence if ice from your vehicle causes damage. Watch out for other cars with heavy ice chunks on top of them. Try to avoid driving near vehicles that are covered in ice and snow.
2) The overpass snow bomb.
Built-up snow and ice on an overpass can drop on your vehicle as you drive along the highway. Not only will the falling blob of icy mess completely block your vision, it can destroy your windshield wipers and your windshield.
The drivers in the case above blamed a snowplow passing above, but any bridge or overpass can start to thaw when the temperature is just right, causing deadly icicles and piles of snow to fall on vehicles and people. When you see trees, porches and roof lines start to thaw in your neighborhood, take care as you drive under frozen infrastructure.
3) Other winter windshield hazards.
A large amount of snow on top of your car could suddenly slide forward if you brake hard. This can cause a temporary inability to see out of the windshield. Take a broom and take the time to clear all snow off your vehicle.
Improperly trying to scrape ice off the windshield can cause chips and cracking. Pouring hot water on a cold windshield can also cause it to crack.
Watch your windshield for any signs of chipping or cracking and have it replaced if you find either. Cold weather can stress chips and cracks, and your windshield won't protect you in the event of a collision.
To safely clear ice, follow the tips here. And here are some great safety tips for keeping your car in great shape all winter. If your windshield does get damaged, contact Performance Auto Glass or a similar company.
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