Why is auto glass called safety glass?
Windshields are made of laminated glass. There are three layers--two outer glass sheets with a urethane plastic center bonded in-between. The plastic inner layer reduces the chance of occupant penetration in a crash, and keeps the glass from separating into flying shards. Some side and back glass is laminated as well. Side and back safety glass is usually tempered glass. This means that a solid sheet of glass is cooled quickly in the manufacturing process, which creates a different hardness in the outside and center of the window. As a result, the glass shatters into square pebbles rather than sharp shards in an accident. Risk of laceration and abrasion is reduced.
Auto glass has other roles to play in safety
Repair or replace glass that has cracks which interfere with your vision. Some windshield cracks can be fixed. Ask your CLEAR CHOICE installer for details. Keep it clean. It's a simple fact that if you can't see well through your glass, you may be in for trouble. Maintain a good supply of washer fluid in your car's reservoir. Keep a scraper, squeegee and de-icing agent handy if your climate requires it. Replace your wiper blades at the first sign of wear for safe driving in the rain. Don't run wipers with damaged blades over your windshield or you may permanently scratch it.