A cracked windscreen can be more than an inconvenience — under UK law, it can land you with a fine, penalty points, or even a driving ban. Whether it's illegal depends largely on where the crack is and how it affects your view of the road.
What the law says about windscreen damage
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, drivers must maintain a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead. Driving with damage that compromises visibility or weakens the glass can be classed as operating a vehicle in a 'dangerous condition'.
The Highway Code also states that drivers must always have a full and unobstructed view of the road, and that all glass should be kept in good condition. Because a cracked windscreen affects both of these requirements, you could face serious trouble if stopped by police or involved in an accident.
According to experts at Kwik Fit, if officers consider your windscreen damage to make your vehicle unsafe, you could be pulled over and face penalties.
Can you safely drive with a crack?
Again, it depends on the location of the damage. A crack on the passenger side might be less likely to interfere with your direct line of sight, but it can still fall within the area covered by the wipers, can still spread, and can still produce glare or distortion. If the crack is substantial or distracting, it requires immediate attention.
A cracked windscreen may also result in an instant MOT failure. The regulations don't apply only to the section you peer through while driving — the overall condition of the screen is crucial.
Penalties for driving with a damaged windscreen
Operating a vehicle with a damaged windscreen could result in an offence if the damage blocks your view or makes the vehicle unsafe to drive. According to GOV.UK, driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition can lead to a fixed penalty notice of £100, three penalty points, and a potential driving ban. If you're involved in an accident while driving with a cracked windscreen, you could face more serious charges.
A video from the TikTok account George's Car Media, which shares guidance from police on driving regulations, showed an officer stopping a motorist due to a crack in his windscreen. The officer explained that the damage was significant, and because there were multiple cracks, it could ultimately lead to the driver's view becoming severely obstructed. The exact penalty handed to the driver was not shared.
The incident serves as a reminder to get your windscreen repaired without delay, regardless of how minor the crack may look.
