Tempered or laminated? Choosing the Right Glass for Your Auto Windows

Our world is an intricate mosaic of cultures, dialects, and lexicons. Even when unified by a common tongue, regional twists and cultural inflections can lead to fascinating variations. Take, for example, the device designed to swipe away rain or debris from a vehicle’s front glass. While Americans might dub it a “windshield wiper”, the label isn’t  universal.   The Evolution of the Windshield Wiper The narrative of the windshield wiper is deeply interwoven with the rise of the automobile. With automobiles dashing through towns and cities, a clear vantage point became paramount for safety. Early renditions of the windshield wiper were rudimentary, merely hand-operated contraptions that required either the driver or a co-passenger to manually sweep the glass clean.   In 1903, Mary Anderson devised the windshield wiper, inspired by a trolley driver’s plight during a blizzard. Anderson’s brainchild featured an in-car lever that manipulated a rubber blade outside, allowing the driver to clear the front glass from rain, snow, or other impediments. Despite securing a patent for her “window cleaning device” that same year, the novelty wasn’t immediately embraced, with many fearing it would divert drivers. Only as cars proliferated, underscoring the necessity for an unobstructed view, did  Anderson’s invention become an automobile staple.   Subsequent inventors augmented Anderson’s foundational design, ushering in the era of automated and periodic wipers most are acquainted with today. However, it is Mary Anderson who remains the cornerstone of this now-indispensable automotive accessory. The 21st century brought the integration of sensors and computerized systems into the humble windshield wiper. Rain-sensing wipers, which automatically activate and adjust their speed based on the intensity of the rainfall, became common in luxury vehicles and have since trickled down to more affordable models. This kind of intuitive technology increases both convenience and safety for drivers. Furthermore, as vehicles have become more aerodynamically designed, the importance of wiper placement and functionality has been under scrutiny. Engineers continuously refine wiper systems to make them more efficient at high speeds and in various weather conditions, ensuring they don’t lift off the windshield and that they maintain consistent pressure across their length.   Windshield vs. Windscreen The front glass panel of an automobile, which faces the wind as it goes forward, is the one that is specifically referred to as the “windshield” in the United States. This is a fascinating distinction because it’s frequently referred to as a “windscreen” in many parts of the world, particularly in the UK. The term “windshield wipers” so accurately describes how Americans refer to the front glass pane.   The word “window” is used more frequently and appears to be more generic. Any transparent panel that allows light to enter a building or a car and can be looked through is referred to as a window. However, while discussing automobiles, it is frequently necessary to be explicit in order to distinguish between the front page and the other glass panes, such as the rear or side windows.   Regional Linguistic Differences This form of linguistic change is not exclusive to the word “windshield wipers”. In the US, you might fill your automobile with “gasoline” or just “gas”, whereas in the UK, it’s “petrol”. Elevators in America are known as “lifts” in Britain. Even inside the United States, many regional terminology exist. For instance, a beverage that is referred to as “soda”; in California may be called “pop” in the Midwest and “coke” in some parts of the South, regardless of the  drink’s real brand.   These differences highlight how language changes and adapts over time in response to geographical influences, culture, and history. Depending on the viewpoint, they might be a source of perplexity, entertainment, or even pride.   Adapting to the Terminology Both international visitors to the United States and Americans who travel abroad need to be aware of these linguistic quirks in order to encourage clear communication. Many Americans would initially be perplexed if someone uses the term “window wipers”, but the context will make the meaning clear. In a nation where “windscreen wiper” is the accepted term, the same thing would occur if an American requested for a “windshield wiper”.   These terms are now even more widely used and understood thanks to the digital age. Many people worldwide are familiar with terminology used outside of their own country due to the globe becoming more interconnected through the internet, movies, TV shows, and other media. The ongoing interaction of cultures promotes better comprehension and occasionally even a blending or merger of terminology.   Takeaway To an American, “windshield wipers” is as habitual as it is historically rooted. Yet, it serves as testament to the fact that even ubiquitous items possess a tale, entwined with linguistic evolution. In a world growing smaller by the day, acknowledging these slight linguistic differences transcends mere trivia. Such nuances celebrate the diverse linguistic landscape and shared narratives that bring humanity closer together.

April Fools’ Day is the perfect time for a good-hearted laugh, especially for car enthusiasts who love a bit of automotive-themed humor. At Auto Glass America, while we’re all for fun and games, we place the highest importance on safety. So, here are some safe yet hilarious automotive pranks you can pull on your friends this April 1st, ensuring everyone drives away with a smile.   1. The Mysterious Non-Starting Car How to: Discreetly use a spare key to turn on the car’s radio or lights without starting the engine. When your friend tries to start the car, the battery will seem dead, leading to a moment of panic followed by relief and laughter when they realize it’s just a harmless prank. Safety first:: Make sure the car is in a safe location and that you’re around to quickly reveal the prank to avoid any unnecessary stress or calls for assistance.   2. Autopilot Engaged! How to: With the increasing popularity of self-driving features, convince your friend their regular car has been upgraded overnight with an “autopilot” feature. Hand them a fake manual with instructions, sit back, and watch the confusion unfold.   Safety first:: Before they start driving and genuinely attempting to use non-existent features, let them in on the joke. It’s all about the build-up, not the execution.   3. Honk If You’re…? How to: Attach a balloon or a sign to the back of your friend’s car that says, “Honk if you love clowns” or “Honk if you think I’m cute.” They’ll wonder why they’re getting so much attention on the road!   Safety first:: Ensure any sign or attachment does not obstruct the driver’s view or the vehicle’s license plate and lights. Safety and legality are paramount.   4. The Car That Cried Alarm How to: If you have access to the car’s remote and can do so without being noticed, periodically set off the car alarm when your friend is nearby. They’ll be baffled trying to figure out why their car is so jumpy.   Safety first:: Keep this prank short and sweet to prevent causing a disturbance or unnecessary concern to others.   5. Invisible Glass How to: Jokingly tell your friend that you’ve replaced their car windows with Auto Glass America’s new “invisible glass,” making it impossible for others to see inside the car. Watch their amazement turn to laughter as they inspect their perfectly normal windows.   Safety first:: It’s all in the storytelling, ensuring there’s no actual tampering with the vehicle’s glass or components.     Remember the Golden Rule of Pranking The best pranks are those where everyone, including the ‘victim,’ can laugh together. Always prioritize safety and never interfere with a vehicle’s operation or safety features. At Auto Glass America, we believe that a good laugh should never come at the expense of safety. So, go ahead, spread some joy and laughter this April Fools’ Day — safely.

Has it ever happened that you’re driving down a sunny lane, welcoming the morning commotion, humming to your favorite tunes when a vehicle passes you and your windshield is hit with a small rock? Now your windshield cracked and you don’t know who is responsible.    Do you take it up with the other vehicle’s driver, contact your insurance company to cover the cost, ignore the damage, or choose between a dealership vs an auto glass shop for windshield replacement and pay out of your pocket?   This article addresses the common question, ‘If a rock hits my windshield, who is responsible?’ and guides you through claiming insurance, determining liability, and preventive measures. Let’s get started!   Understanding Windshield Damage from Rocks Road debris strikes are an undesirable but frequent occurrence. However, there are many variables that affect the damage the windshield takes, including your speed, the speed of the other car, the state and quality of your windshield, etc. It is important to understand what caused the windshield to crack.   Your windshield may chip or break from a rock striking it, making driving dangerous and jeopardizing the structural integrity of the car. If a car is driven with a cracked windshield, the body of your car becomes compromised which may collapse the roof, thus harming you and your passengers. But how do you get it fixed? You can go to a dealership or an auto glass shop for windshield repair or replacement as per the requirement.   Determining Liability You must be wondering, “If a rock hits my windshield, who is responsible?” Is it the vehicle that caused the rock to fly and hit your windshield or your insurance company? It is important to understand factors like road conditions, speed, and driving behavior as these help determine who is liable. The question now arises is – Who is responsible if a rock hits your windshield?   If a rock comes directly from the back of a truck and hits your windshield, the company or the truck may be held accountable. Your comprehensive insurance policy should cover this type of harm. It is advisable to contact your insurance company and explain the situation in detail.   Insurance Coverage for Windshield Damage In most cases, your insurance company covers the cost of repairing a damaged windshield. However, the extent and cause of the damage will decide the coverage and deductible. If you have complete glass coverage, the cost of replacing or repairing your windshield might only require a small or nonexistent deductible.   You must get in touch with your insurance company to learn if your insurance policy would cover the damage and how you can claim it.   Preventive Measures to Avoid Windshield Damage If your windshield is damaged, it obstructs your view, potentially leading to an accident. Thus, the following precautions should be followed to prevent windshield damage:   Keep some distance between you and other vehicles to avoid taking a hit from road debris. Drive at an acceptable speed. Driving at a higher speed is like an open invitation for foreign objects to collide with greater force and crack or damage your windshield. Park your car indoors or under protection to prevent the sun from weakening your shield by expanding the glass in the heat. You must regularly clean your windshield and maintain a complete check on the wiper blades so that it does not clog up.   Steps to Take After Your Windshield is Hit A chipped, cracked, or damaged windshield endangers not just your safety but that of other passengers as well. If your windshield has been damaged, you can do the following:   Evaluate the Damage When hit by a rock or any other form of debris, you must focus on being calm and check if any passenger was harmed. Once you have ensured your and the safety of others, get out of your car and evaluate the impact. The damage can vary based on the speed, size, and nature of the impact.   Contact Your Insurance Company If your windshield is substantially damaged, do not drive the vehicle. Call for immediate roadside assistance. However, if the damage is not much, drive back home and get in touch with your insurance company and explain the problem.   Schedule the Windshield Repair or Replacement You need to start fixing your damaged windshield as soon as you can. You can make repair arrangements with your insurance company; they can direct you to the right auto glass body shop or even arrange for a repairman to visit your home. After examining your vehicle, they will decide whether the chip or crack can be fixed or if a new windshield is necessary.   Conclusion As a car owner, if you are trying to navigate the question, ‘If a rock hits my windshield, who is responsible?’, the above guide will be helpful.   While it is difficult to assign blame for the small rock that damaged your windshield, your insurance company will walk you through the procedure. Driving with a broken or chipped windshield is unsafe and it should be repaired immediately. Once your windshield has been repaired or replaced, thanks to Auto Glass America, it’s time to take your car for a spin and get lost in the music again.