In the case of Australia, driving with a cracked windscreen is a legal and safety issue. Minor chips and cracks can result in penalties, and fines, and can contribute to a vehicle inspection failure. Moreover, if the windscreen lacks structural integrity or hinders the driver’s visibility, minor cracks will pose a risk and contribute to a safety violation. When it comes to the legal standards around cracked windscreens, every driver in Australia has a responsibility to ensure their vehicle maintains its windscreens in good condition. If a defect of 75mm or longer is located in the driver’s central vision zone, or if it is in the area of the vehicle wipers, or if it penetrates several layers of glass, then the vehicle is considered unsafe to be on the road. Each state has its own more detailed provisions regarding driver vision.
State-wise Penalties and Fines
The location and gravity of an offense determine the consequences for driving with a cracked windscreen. Fines in New South Wales are over $300. In Victoria and Queensland, the fines are generally between $200 and $464. South Australia fines are $250, and Western Australia fines are between $100 and $200 with a defect notice. In serious situations, officers may demand a windscreen be repaired or replaced before a driver can legally continue to operate the vehicle.
| State | Minimum Fine | Max Fine | Crack Length Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $300 | $464 | 30mm–150mm |
| VIC | $250 | $1000+ | Obstructs vision |
| QLD | $200 | $464 | >150mm |
| SA | $250 | $400 | Blocks visibility |
| WA | $100 | $200 | Impairs vision |
What Makes a Crack Illegal
Not every windscreen crack will make the vehicle unroadworthy. If the crack or chip is outside the driver’s line of sight and is under the limit of 30mm for hairline cracks or 16mm for bullseye chips, a driver will not incur a penalty. However, a driver will incur a penalty for large cracks, deep damage or star fractures in their line of sight.
Risks and Concern Over Insurance
There are risks other than legal repercussions concerning a cracked windscreen. The risk of severe injury or damage from an accident increases due to compromised structural integrity. Windscreens interact with various vehicle safety features, and also provide support to the vehicle’s frame. Insurance plans are likely to cover the cost of repairs, but the damage may become costly to the extent that the insurer will refuse to repair it if it’s neglected for a while.
The Need for Quick Repairs
Due to the safety and legal implications, repair of cracked windscreens should be done quickly. Windscreen chips are likely to expand quickly due to temperature variations and movement. Repairs done quickly will ensure that the driver and passengers will be safe and prevent fines, as the vehicle will be able to pass inspections.
Immediate Repairs
If a crack occurs suddenly, or even in the driver’s direct vision, quick repairs should be done. In Australia, there are windscreen services that will provide repairs to prevent the vehicle from being in violation of road laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it ok if I drive for a short distance with a small crack?
If it is a small crack and it is not on the driver’s line of vision, it is temporarily ok but you should get it repaired soon.
2. Will insurance cover the repair of damaged glass on my car?
Typically, comprehensive insurance policies cover the cost of repairing damaged car glass, however, the terms and conditions of each insurance company may differ.
3. What happens if I don’t deal with a crack?
Windscreen damage that is not dealt with will lead to spread of cracks, possible significant fines and failed inspections.
