It is a very dangerous activity, as the driver can drive with a broken or damaged windscreen, thus endangering other road users. The legalities of driving with a cracked, chipped or broken windglass will differ according to the position of the damage on the glass and how the damage has impacted the driver in terms of visibility. Generally, throughout Australia, it is agreed that anything that impairs safe driving is not legal. The vehicle might be considered unroadworthy and fines or penalties might be imposed upon it in case the damage hinders vision.
Common Legal Limits for Windscreen Damage in Australia
| Damage Type | Maximum Allowed Size (Driver’s Side) |
|---|---|
| Hairline crack | Up to 30 mm long |
| Crack from edge | Up to 75 mm long |
| Bullseye crack | Up to 16 mm diameter |
The safety and visibility considerations encompass visibility and safety requirements. Visibility and Safety Considerations: Visibility and Safety requirement are included.
The major consideration in the case of a driver with a broken windscreen is the level to which the driver can see the road clearly. As an illustration, a small chip, which is well out of the direct view of the driver, like in the upper corner on the passenger side, might not present a great safety hazard. On the other hand, big cracks or chips that may be in front of the driver blocking central vision are dangerous. Provided that it is pulled over in such a state of damage, a driver could receive a defect sticker that would demand repairs within a specified period of time.
In Australia, the regional regulations do not exist.
The rules of similarity between Australian states are given in accordance with the National Road Transport Commission Rules on the Guidelines of Rworthiness of the roads though with few differences:
NSW: Severely chipped, cracked or heavily scratched windscreens should be replaced in cases where they cannot be repaired.
Damages to the driver side are allowed to consist of two of the following: Hairline cracks of up to 30mm long, edge cracks of up to 75mm, or bullseye cracks of up to 16mm diameter.
Victoria: Windscreens do not pass roadworthy examinations when the wipers wiped an area, and the windscreen is broken to a point where it can not be seen. Windscreens with cracks that go through more than one layer or cracks that are bullseye sized (>16mm) are unlawful.
Queensland: Like in Victoria, it is unlawful to have the impaired visibility in the area of the wipers operated. Bullseye damages and cracks should not go through more than one sheet of glass or exceed size requirements.
South Australia and Tasmania Recommendations The SA guidelines say the windscreen must not be damaged excessively and there is more interpretation required. Tasmania suggests that all defects should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid distortion of visibility.
The current Windscreen Technology and Prices.
Windscreens are costly to replace owing to the technological incorporations in the contemporary vehicles. Functionality of features such as sensors, cameras close to the rearview mirror or a design of a heated glass need specially designed glasses. Such technological complexity not only increases replacement costs, but also adds to the importance of detecting minor damage early in order to avoid the expensive replacements.
FAQs
Q1: Is it possible to drive with a small chip on your windscreen?
Yes, in the event that the chip is tiny and is placed outside the direct visibility of the driver, it will be allowed, however it will depend on state laws.
Q2: What would be the case in the event of being stopped with a broken windscreen?
You can be given a defect notice whereby repairs must be carried out within a specified time, or fines may be paid in case the damage is a serious impairment to vision.
Q3: In what situations can the broken windscreen be considered good?
Small cracks or chips that do not affect the vision of driving should generally be acceptable, provided that they are not larger than is allowed.
It is important to be careful when driving with a cracked windscreen because in both legal and safety terms, your visibility is very important. A damaged windscreen that is repaired or replaced in good time can help to promote road safety and lawfulness.
