If you have a windshield that is broken, and you need a windshield replacement, you might be inclined to just drive around without a windshield for a while. If you live in a particularly warm and not-so-wet area, this may seem like an ideal, but temporary, solution. There are just a few problems with this idea, namely that you need a windshield. There are several reasons why the first cars did not have windshields, and modern cars have them.

Flying Bugs and Birds

Many an accident was caused by a flying bug distracting the driver in the first cars. Birds swooping in low were also a problem. Some drivers took to wearing aviation goggles to prevent a visual distraction, but biting and stinging insects were not deterred. The first cars were also not as fast as they are today. Today's cars have a lot more bugs hitting the windshield because of the speeds at which they move. Birds, at least, have gotten a little smarter and do not fly quite as low over a highway. Still, your windshield protects your vehicle from collecting tons of insects as you speed along down the road.

Precipitation

This might make you think primarily of rain, but your windshield also protects you from hail, sleet, snow, ice, and mixtures of precipitation. Can you imagine how wet you would get in one of the first cars with no windshield and no hood? Now, if you were to drive around without a windshield, you would not only get as cold and as wet as your great-grandfarther in his "horseless carriage," but you would also flood your vehicle and ruin the interior with whatever precipitation comes down. Even if you live in a very dry area, there is always a chance of rain.

Gas Mileage

You might be thinking, "What does a windshield have to do with gas mileage?" Actually, a lot. Auto designers rely on windshields for aerodynamic purposes. Your windshield acts as a necessary barrier to move wind out of the way and over your car so that your car glides effortlessly down a highway. Because the wind is pushed out of the way, the auto designers can calculate your gas mileage based on a number of factors, including wind resistance.

If you drive without the windshield, you are now experiencing drag from the amount of air that is going right into, and not over, your vehicle. The faster you drive without a windshield, the more that wind drags on your vehicle and the more fuel you are required to use to maintain the same speed. You would find that you have to refuel a lot more often.

For more information about the necessity of windshields, contact a company like Coats Auto Body and Paint.