Winter in Alberta is formidable, with its biting cold, icy roads and blinding snowstorms. While many factors contribute to safe winter driving, one often overlooked aspect is the condition of a vehicle’s windshield. A seemingly minor crack or chip can escalate into a significant safety hazard, especially when coupled with the harsh winter elements.

Legal Regulations: A Clear and Present Danger

Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act and Vehicle Equipment Regulation impose strict standards on vehicle maintenance, including the windshield condition. The primary concern is ensuring clear visibility for the driver, a fundamental requirement for the safe operation of a motor vehicle. A crack in a windshield, especially one that is large or located within the driver’s field of view, could significantly impair the driver’s vision, rendering them unable to see other vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles/motorcycles, or other hazards.

In Alberta, a common rule of thumb used by law enforcement is that a crack over 12 millimetres in diameter could be considered unsafe and subject to a fine, particularly if the crack is within an area of the windshield swept by the wipers.

Furthermore, a cracked windshield could be considered a contributing factor in an accident, leading to increased liability and potential legal action from other parties involved. It could also impact the driver’s insurance coverage if the car was left in an unsafe condition without repair.

The Silent Threat of a Cracked Windshield

As mentioned above, a cracked windshield is more than just a cosmetic blemish; it’s a silent threat to driver and passenger safety, particularly during winter. This seemingly minor issue can lead to severe consequences, including accidents, injuries, and legal repercussions.

Impaired Vision, Increased Risk of Accident

A damaged windshield can significantly impair a driver’s vision, making it difficult to perceive obstacles, road signs, and other vehicles, especially in low-light conditions or during snowstorms. This reduced visibility can lead to delayed reactions and increased stopping distances, ultimately increasing the risk of accidents.

Reduced visibility, especially in challenging winter conditions, significantly increases the risk of accidents, from minor fender-benders to catastrophic collisions. A cracked windshield can impair a driver’s ability to react quickly to hazards, such as sudden braking or swerving vehicles.

Structural Compromise

A cracked windshield weakens the vehicle’s overall structural integrity. The windshield is designed to absorb and distribute impact energy in a frontal collision. A damaged windshield is less effective at dispersing this energy, potentially leading to increased cabin intrusion and occupant injury. The weakened structure may also contribute to increased deformation in other areas of the vehicle, such as the roof and pillars, further compromising occupant protection.

Shattering Hazard

In a collision, a cracked windshield is more likely to shatter into a dangerous spray of glass fragments, posing a significant risk of serious injury to occupants. These projectiles can cause lacerations, eye injuries, and head trauma. The severity of the injuries depends on various factors, including the size and speed of the glass fragments, the location of the impact, the force of the collision, and the protection offered by safety features like seatbelts and airbags. The risk is particularly high for passengers in the front seat, as they are closer to the windshield and more likely to be struck by flying glass.

Rollover Risk

A damaged windshield can significantly increase the risk of serious injury or fatality in a rollover accident. In a rollover, the roof of the vehicle is subjected to extreme forces, and a weakened windshield can compromise the roof’s structural integrity, making it more likely to collapse. A collapsed roof can crush the occupants, leading to severe injuries or even death. A damaged windshield can also increase the risk of ejection, as the occupants may be thrown from the vehicle through the broken windshield. The risk of rollover accidents is particularly high for vehicles with a high center of gravity, such as SUVs and trucks.

Airbag Interference

A cracked windshield can interfere with the proper deployment of airbags. The damage may affect the sensors that trigger airbag deployment, leading to delayed or failed deployment, which can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the airbag system.

Winter Weather Exacerbation

Winter weather conditions can amplify the dangers of a cracked windshield. Ice and snow can accumulate on the crack, further obstructing vision. Rapid temperature fluctuations can also cause the crack to spread or the glass to shatter. The severity of the winter weather exacerbation depends on the severity of the winter weather conditions. For example, a large crack in a windshield during a blizzard can be extremely dangerous, as the ice and snow can accumulate on the crack and completely obscure the driver’s vision.

Take Care of Your Windshield This Winter Season

A cracked windshield is not just a minor inconvenience but a serious safety hazard that can have devastating consequences. By understanding the legal implications, safety risks, and potential impacts, drivers can take proactive steps to address windshield damage and ensure their safety on the road, particularly during the challenging winter months.

Cuming & Gillespie LLP: Leading Personal Injury Lawyers Advising on Motor Vehicle Accidents in Calgary

The personal injury lawyers of Cuming & Gillespie LLP have extensive experience representing injured individuals after a motor vehicle accident. We fight to obtain the best possible compensation for you and remain invested in your overall recovery throughout the legal process. We work closely with your medical team, therapists, and any other professionals engaged in your care to help maximize your recovery.

For over two decades, Cuming & Gillespie LLP have advocated for the rights of injured plaintiffs, with a proven track record of recovering over $270 million for our clients. We proudly represent clients in Calgary and throughout Alberta. To schedule a confidential consultation, please call us at 403-571-0555 or reach out online.