Sneeze shields have been around since the 50s and can be seen in all types of vehicles. These shields are often used in all kinds of businesses, mainly to separate one section from another, but they are also very useful for car owners. Did you know that you can install sneeze shields as an added level of protection for your car if you work for a ride-sharing service?

The type of material and protection layers for different sneeze shields will help you decide which is the right fit for your car. Read on further to find out what you need to look out for when buying and installing sneeze shields for your car, such as the ones from barrierlab.com.

Material is Important

Sneeze shields are generally made using acrylic or polycarbonate material, with some being made of glass. Polycarbonate is stronger than acrylic and it is crack-resistant, which makes it optimal for safety concerns.

Acrylic, on the other hand, is cheaper and more compatible with different shapes and sizes of vehicles. This polymer compound is very lightweight and often used in smaller and less heavy-duty cars, but is less durable and reliable. Airplanes also use polycarbonate for their windshields, so you know this will keep you safer than acrylic, in the event of a car accident.

Frames

Frameless shields require less installation time as you are simply mounting and gluing the shield to the inside of your cars’ interior. If you are looking for a more secure option that won’t easily crack, framed polycarbonate sneeze shields are the better option. Framed shields are more suited for large vehicles as they provide an extra level of safety, particularly for off-road vehicles.

It is also better to consider permanently mounting the shields to make them more crack-resistant. Surprisingly, mounted shields can cost you less than free-standing ones but have less mobility.  If you change cars, you can’t simply swap the sneeze shield out.

Thickness

Without a thick enough shield, any pressure or blunt-force knock will cause the sneeze shield to bend and potentially shatter. All sneeze shields are equipped to withstand various forces, and these can be a critical safety feature if you have a car accident. The thickness of the shield has to increase proportionally depending on the size of your car, and if you use polycarbonate or acrylic. Determine what you will use your car for the most and if you would like better security.

Smaller size frames can still work if you have a narrow car, but you need to increase the material thickness and fasten the sneeze shield securely.

Many factors can be considered when choosing a sneeze shield. The practical side to installing a sneeze shield is not just to keep a barrier between you and other passengers, but can be a necessity in terms of added protection. Sneeze shields can protect drivers from ill passengers. But if the sneeze shield is durable enough, it can withstand enough blunt force to protect the driver or passengers from being seriously injured if there is a car accident.