Is It Illegal to Drive With a Broken Windshield in Minnesota? What You Need to Know

Is It Illegal to Drive With a Broken Windshield in Minnesota? What You Need to Know

Your windshield does more than keep the wind and rain out—it’s a critical safety feature designed to protect you and ensure clear visibility on the road. In Minnesota, driving with a broken windshield that obstructs your vision isn’t just dangerous—it can also be illegal.

Minnesota Law and Windshield Damage

Minnesota Statute 169.71 addresses vehicle equipment and visibility requirements, including windshields. While not every chip or crack automatically leads to a ticket, the law makes it clear that your view of the road must not be obstructed.

This means that law enforcement officers have discretion when deciding whether a crack or chip is severe enough to warrant a citation. What may seem minor to you could be considered a safety hazard by an officer—especially if the damage interferes with your line of sight.

When Small Damage Turns Dangerous

Some chips and cracks start small and seem harmless. Unfortunately, Minnesota’s changing temperatures, road vibrations, and everyday driving can cause that minor damage to spread quickly. A small crack can turn into a major obstruction before you know it, putting you at risk for:

Why take the chance?

Skip the Risk—Replace Your Windshield With Confidence

Instead of worrying about whether a crack might get worse or if today is the day you get pulled over, avoid the dangerous implications of a broken windshield by contacting Twin Cities Auto Glass. With 14+ years of experience, our team knows how to assess windshield damage and provide reliable, professional replacement you can trust.

We make it easy to stay safe, legal, and confident on the road.

Safety First: More Than Just the Law

Beyond legal concerns, a damaged windshield compromises your vehicle’s overall safety. Your windshield helps support the roof during a rollover and allows airbags to deploy correctly. Driving with compromised glass puts your safety at risk—even if you never receive a ticket. That’s why windshield repair or replacement is highly recommended, not just legally, but for your protection.

Convenient Locations to Serve You

You’ll find Twin Cities Auto Glass shops in:

Don’t Wait Until It Becomes a Problem

A cracked windshield isn’t something to ignore—especially when Minnesota law leaves enforcement up to officer discretion. Skip the risk, protect your safety, and drive with confidence by scheduling your windshield replacement with Twin Cities Auto Glass today.

Schedule Anytime with Confidence

Whether it’s January or July, a cracked windshield shouldn’t slow you down. Twin Cities Auto Glass is open all year, ready to provide stress-free, professional service whenever you need it.

Don’t let the weather dictate your safety.
Schedule your appointment today and trust the team with 14+ years of experience to get the job done right—any season, any month. 🚗❄️☀️

Schedule now — and enjoy your holiday break, stress-free. https://www.tcautoglass.net/schedule/