DRIVERS have been advised to carry out a crucial check after windshields were shattered on a highway.
The car owners are now out of pocket by $100s due to someone else’s mistake.
One car had its windshield damaged after a wheel became loose on another vehicle on Highway 280 (file photo)[/caption]
A number of vehicles were damaged after a tire became loose on Wednesday morning on Highway 280 in Cupertino, California, the Santa Clara County Fire Department (SCCFD) said.
Fire crews responded to a car crash at around 10.34am which was caused by the loose tire, on I-280 near Foothill Expressway.
Officials said the tire broke off and became separated from a vehicle which was travelling south.
It then bounced across into the northbound lane where it hit another vehicle.
Other vehicles were also damaged while the drivers were taking action to avoid the tire.
The exact number of cars damaged has not by specified by the SCCFD.
One vehicle had its windshield cracked after it was hit by the tire.
There were no serious injuries reported, according to the SCCFD.
In light of the incident, the SCCFD has issued a list of reminders for drivers to remain safe in similar accidents.
- Maintain your vehicle. Follow manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, especially for tires, brakes, and suspension.
- Expect the unexpected. Stay alert and drive defensively.
- Leave space. Following distance gives you time to react to sudden hazards.
- Pull to the right and stop for emergency vehicles using sirens and lights — it’s the law and ignoring it delays their arrival to emergencies.
- Stay focused. When passing an accident scene, keep your eyes on the road. Distraction puts everyone at risk.
The cost of replacing your windshield can vary enormously due to a variety of factors, such as location, the extent of the damage and your model of vehicle, according to the AAA.
However, the average cost of completely replacing a windshield is between $350-$550, according to Forbes.
However, you can expect to pay a lot more if you own a luxury vehicle with rare parts.
Prices can also vary due to the state or city you are based in.
The advice is to shop around for the best deal.
Most windshield damage can be repaired if you act quickly.
However, the following signs indicate that you may need to replace your windshield as soon as possible, the AAA says.
- Cracks are deep set and larger than 3 inches in length
- You have multiple cracks on your windshield that obscure your vision
- Your windshield is more than 5 years old, and simple repair solutions aren’t as effective
Luckily, no one was seriously injured in the accident (file photo)[/caption]
