As the school year kicks off, roads fill with buses, bikes, and brand-new drivers navigating their daily commutes. For student drivers and their families, safety should be the top priority. Whether you’re a parent prepping your teen for their first solo drive or a student eager to hit the road, here’s why windshield care matters more than you think.

Common Windshield Issues New Drivers Overlook

New drivers often focus on mastering the rules of the road, but they may miss subtle signs of windshield damage that can compromise visibility and safety. Here are a few commonly ignored issues:

• Tiny chips or cracks from gravel or debris
• Wiper blade streaks that blur vision in rain
• Foggy or hazy glass from poor cleaning habits
• Improper defrosting techniques that worsen visibility

These minor problems can quickly escalate, especially during early morning drives or in unpredictable weather.

Small Chips Can Become Big Problems

That little chip from last week’s drive? It’s not just cosmetic. Temperature changes, vibrations from driving, and moisture can cause chips to spread into full-blown cracks—often at the worst possible time.

During school commutes, student drivers face:

• Busy intersections
• Sudden stops
• Limited reaction time

A compromised windshield can distort vision, increase glare, and reduce the effectiveness of safety systems like lane assist or collision detection.

Final Thoughts: Safety Starts with Sight

As students head back to school, make sure their view of the road is unobstructed and secure. Whether it’s a quick chip fix or a full replacement, investing in professional windshield care is a smart move for every student driver.

Bonus: Student Car Safety Essentials Checklist

Before hitting the road this school year, make sure your car is ready for safe and stress-free commutes. Here’s a quick checklist every student driver should review—with windshield care right at the top: