Windscreen scratches are often not treated as urgently as windscreen cracks, but its still important to have these repaired. Windscreen scratches can be caused by a range of factors, including being hit with debris or dirt while driving, and even broken windscreen wipers. So, why is it important to repair windscreen scratches? And what are the benefits of prompt repair?
So, why is it important to repair windscreen scratches?
There are a number of reasons why repairing windscreen scratches is an important consideration that shouldn’t be overlooked. These include:
- Visibility: One of the biggest problems caused by scratches on the windscreen is the reduced visibility these can cause. This is often made worse when driving in bright, low sunlight, or when driving at night, and even minor surface scratches can cause issues. Glare and visual distortion are the two most common issues, and these can both make the road difficult to see, potentially increasing the risk of accidents.
- Safety: As well as impairing your safety while driving through visibility issues, a scratched windscreen can also compromise the structural integrity of the glass. This is more common when the scratches are deep or extensive. In the event of a collision or impact, a weakened windscreen is more likely to shatter or fail, putting you at greater risk of injury.
- Legal compliance: In the UK, there are regulations governing the condition of vehicle windscreens. According to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, drivers must ensure that their windscreens are in good condition and free from damage that could obstruct their view of the road. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in penalties, including fines and points on your driving license.
- MOT: During the annual MOT test, the condition of the windscreen is one aspect of your vehicle that will be assessed for safety and compliance with regulations. If the scratches are deemed to affect visibility or compromise safety, your vehicle may fail the MOT test, requiring repairs to be carried out before it can be certified as roadworthy.
- Prevention of further damage: Over time, windscreen scratches can worsen due to factors such as weathering, road debris, and windshield wipers. In some cases, this can even lead to windscreen cracks appearing. Repairing scratches promptly helps to prevent them from spreading and causing more extensive damage, which can save you money on more costly repairs in the future.
For more information, or for professional windscreen repairs you can trust, get in touch with Red Rose Windscreens today.