There are many common reasons a driver may need a windscreen replacement, such as a crack caused by a flying chip or storm-blown debris. But often it can happen because of an accident caused by poor visibility.

Sometimes this is a situation you can do little about, for example, heavy rain, fog or poor light in winter, but there are other cases when it is all about ensuring the windscreen is clean. This is not just about washing your car regularly, but, right now, ensuring it is not covered in pollen.

This issue was highlighted by the Daily Record, which carried a warning from John Wilmot, the CEO of car leasing company LeaseLoco.com that at this time of year, when the air is full of pollen, there is a risk of windscreens getting covered in it, hampering visibility.

“Pollen can be a real nuisance when it clings to your car, making it look dirtier than it is,” remarked Mr Wilmot, adding: “It can also be a hazard if it builds up on your windscreen and windows over time and starts to obscure your vision.”

This risks drivers who are stopped being hit with a £1,000 fine and points on the licence for having a dangerously impeded view. Such a situation will make an accident more likely – and with it damage to the windscreen as well as the rest of the vehicle.

Sometimes accidents come out of the blue and windscreen damage is a sudden thing – like the case of an incident in Northern Ireland where a driver collided with a cow and it bounced across the bonnet, shattering the windscreen but thankfully not leading to a fatality.

However, in so many cases, it is mundane things like falling pollen and blossom in spring, confetti at a wedding or autumn leaves that can create the risk of an accident. That is why it is important to keep cleaning your windscreen – and inspecting it for any cracks or chips when you do.