Auto · Originally published December 5, 2014 · Updated November 2026
You can't avoid what you can't see. Between freezing rain in winter, humid foggy mornings in spring and fall, and gravel kicked up by trucks on I-44 and US-65, your windshield takes a beating in southwest Missouri. A few habits keep it clear, and the right coverage keeps a crack from turning into a big bill.
Ice storms are the Ozarks' signature winter problem. When your car is glazed over:
If you know freezing rain is coming, a windshield cover or even an old towel held down by the doors can save a lot of scraping.
Fog on the inside of the glass comes from moisture inside the car meeting cold glass. To clear it fast:
Wiper blades wear out faster than most people think. If they streak, chatter or skip, replace them. Before winter, switch to a washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures so it doesn't freeze in the lines or on the glass, and keep a spare jug in the trunk. Road salt and brine spray can blind you in seconds on a busy highway.
Gravel roads and highway trucks mean rock chips are a fact of life here. A small chip can spread into a long crack after a cold night or a pothole, so deal with it early. Chip repair is usually quicker and less expensive than a full replacement.
If the windshield does need to be replaced, ask whether your vehicle has cameras or sensors mounted near the glass. Many newer cars use them for lane-keeping and automatic braking, and they may need to be recalibrated after a replacement.
Windshield damage from a rock, hail or a falling ice-covered limb is generally handled under comprehensive coverage, subject to your deductible. A few things to know:
Our article on what "full coverage" means explains how comprehensive and collision fit together, and the auto coverage checkup can show whether your deductibles still make sense. If you're also thinking about storm damage to your home, our wind and hail deductible article is worth a read.
Not sure how your policy handles glass claims? Call 417.865.4800 and we'll walk through your auto insurance options with you.
Usually not. Glass damage from rocks, hail or falling debris is generally handled under comprehensive coverage.
It depends on the insurance company and your claim history. Comprehensive claims are often viewed differently than at-fault accidents, but ask before you file if you're concerned.
A small chip outside your line of sight may not be an immediate problem, but chips can spread quickly in cold weather. Getting it repaired early is the safer and usually less expensive choice.
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