Generally automobile windshield chip repair grow into cracks very quickly. Not taking the vehicle in to get it repaired immediately can result in a crack that is too wide to repair.
Park your vehicle in a garage or under a shelter. If possible, park your vehicle in an area where it will be insulated from the harsh environment. This will not only protect it from ice, but from falling limbs or other hazards this time of year.
The main question when you are seeking to fix a cracked windshield is whether to replace or repair the glass. Most auto glass shops will opt to repair a crack or chip, as long as it is not directly in front of the driver. They will use a clear resin that is dropped onto the crack and then fixed with an ultra-violet light. The clear resin will then cure and the crack will no longer be visible to the human eye. Most cracks or chips can be effectively fixed in this manner. This method can fix small cracks as well as larger spiderweb style cracks. If an actual hole is formed in the windshield or the crack has traveled too far, your best bet is fix auto glass.
If you have insurance that will cover windshield repair with a low deductible, this may be a good option. Many companies that specialize in windshield repair will pay the deductible for you provided it's under $100. If you call ahead to make an appointment most of these companies can replace the windshield in less than an hour. If you don't make an appointment, you may have to wait a few hours if there are many customers in front of you.
Still no big deal? In some states it's illegal to drive with a crack in the windshield that is in the driver's line of sight. In other states it's illegal to drive with a cracked windshield at all. I'd call that a big deal.
Pre-resin treatment suspension method is commonly used to repair a damaged windshield. PRISM is offered in many locations. Auto shops, car dealers, and even car washes may provide this service. It takes a small amount of time and is well worth the effort. The car owner and the person responsible for the damage should speak to the insurance company before the repair is completed. Since in the majority of times these cracks were not because of the car owner's actions, they may not see their insurance rates rise after the repairs are made.