June 1st marks the official start of Atlantic hurricane season, and if you’ve lived in Sarasota or Manatee County for any length of time, you know that preparation isn’t something to leave until a storm is in the forecast. Season runs through November 30, so this is a checklist worth doing now.
Most hurricane prep conversations focus on your home. Your car rarely gets the same attention, but it should. Here’s a checklist specifically for your vehicle’s glass.
Why Your Windshield Matters More in a Storm
Your windshield isn’t just a window. It’s a structural component of your vehicle that supports the roof in a rollover and contributes to proper airbag deployment. A windshield that already has a crack or significant chip is structurally compromised. In a storm with high winds and flying debris, that weak point becomes a serious vulnerability. A damaged windshield is significantly more likely to fail upon impact than an intact one.
The Pre-Season Auto Glass Checklist
- Inspect the windshield for chips and cracks. Run your finger along the glass if you’re unsure. Any chip larger than a quarter, or any crack of any length, should be addressed before storm season.
- Check the windshield seal. Look for any lifting, cracking, or gaps around the perimeter. A compromised seal is a leak waiting to happen.
- Inspect side windows and rear glass. Check all glass surfaces while you’re at it.
- Test your wipers. If you haven’t replaced wiper blades recently, do it before storm season.
- Know your insurance coverage. Most Florida drivers with comprehensive insurance are covered for windshield repair and replacement at no deductible. Call your insurer and ask specifically about glass coverage.
Where to Park During a Storm
If you have access to a garage or covered parking, use it. If not, park away from large trees, utility poles, and anything that could become airborne. A vehicle with a cracked windshield that gets hit by storm debris is a much bigger problem than one with intact glass.
After the Storm: What to Check
Once it’s safe to go outside, check your vehicle’s glass before driving. Even minor storm debris can cause damage that isn’t obvious until you’re on the highway and air pressure causes a chip to spread. If you find damage, call us before you drive the car any significant distance. A chip caught early is a repair. A chip that spreads on the highway is a replacement.
Blue Ribbon Is Here All Season
We serve Sarasota and Manatee County year-round, including throughout hurricane season. Mobile service is available and we come to you. Most repairs are completed in under an hour, and most replacements in under two. If you have comprehensive insurance, there’s a very strong chance you’ll pay nothing at all.
Don’t wait for a storm warning to deal with that chip. Get a free quote from Blue Ribbon Auto Glass today.
