How To Avoid Rock Chips In Your Windshield

Keep Your Distance

It is a good idea to keep a large distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. Following too close behind large trucks, semis and other vehicles will lead to a rock chip. Vehicle tires can pick up rocks and debris and throw them at your windshield. Keeping a reasonable distance will protect your vehicle’s windshield. It also gives you more time to react to something unexpected in front of you.

Count The Wheels

The more tires a vehicle has, the more of a chance one of those tires will kick up a rock. If you are next to or following a vehicle with more than two rear tires, try to change lanes.

Be Aware of Mud Flaps

Mud flaps are usually seen on vehicles with larger wheels. Large wheels tend to throw more rocks and they tend to travel further with a much greater force. It’s important to note that mud flaps do not guarantee protection from rock chips. Try to stay away from vehicles with mud flaps, because the rocks they toss will break your windshield.

Use Your Common Sense

Use common sense while driving to avoid rock chips. Look around for anything that can crack your windshield. A vehicle pulling into traffic from a gravel road is best avoided. New asphalt takes time to set and it’s possible to see some pieces of material scattered on the road. Slowing down to allow extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Seek Repairs Immediately

Sometimes you will follow all these tips and still get a rock chip or crack in your windshield. If this does happen, get the rock chip repaired as soon as possible. A small fix now will save you the cost of a whole new windshield in the future.