No matter how careful you are when driving, certain damages seem to be inevitable. For example, windshield chips can occur from merely driving, similarly to minor paint scratches. However, below are a few strategies that you can employ to limit the chances of a chip happening.

How to Avoid Chipping Your Windshield

1. Maintain Distance

Rocks or dense debris that other cars kick up behind them are some of the most common causes of windshield chips. Because of this, you should not follow another driver too closely. The closer you are, the more likely a rock will hit your car.

Doing this also increases the chances of a collision. If the car in front of you were to stop suddenly, you wouldn’t have as much time to stop before hitting them. If possible, keep at least three seconds of distance in between. If you are behind a semi-truck or construction vehicle, increase the gap even further or move to another lane.

2. Avoid Construction Sites

You should also try not to drive through areas where crews are working on the road or nearby buildings. Depending on your commute, this can be challenging, but if you have the option of a detour, take it.

Even though it might take longer to reach your destination, every stage of construction leaves behind debris. This can then end up on the street and underneath a vehicle in front of you, increasing the risk that it will hit your windshield.

3. Choose the Scenic Route

Finally, when your schedule permits, stay off the highway. Although it’s more efficient, there are more drivers on it, and therefore, more opportunities for rocks to hit your windshield. Driving at faster speeds also kicks up more debris, and sends it backward with increased force. Even if it’s a smaller pebble, the speed will lead to a bigger impact.

Although these tips are useful, windshield chips happen to everyone. If you want to repair them, contact Auto Glass Experts. Based in Hastings, NE, this family-owned and -operated business provides speedy and dependable rock chip repairs. Visit the website for more information about their services. If you have any questions, call (402) 463-0025. They offer free estimates, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.