Is it illegal to drive with a broken windshield?

Driving with a broken windshield is illegal in most states, according to CarsDirect. A cracked windshield is weakened and could splinter and cause an accident from a minor bump at freeway speeds.

Cars.com advises consumers to not ignore cracks in windshields, noting that small cracks and rock chips can spread if not repaired. Additionally, large cracks can compromise visibility and result in traffic citations. Cars should not be driven if windshields have cracks longer than 12 inches or chips larger than a quarter. Additionally, a car with a cracked windshield should not be washed, and it should be taken to an auto-glass repair specialist.