The automobile windshield chip repair problem with ignoring the damage is that it will grow worse with time. Replacements have their downsides as well. Besides spending up to $350, you lose the original manufacture seal. Many replacements are done incorrectly and can leak and crack. What is the alternative?

Snow and ice: It is important to remove frost, snow, and ice as soon as possible. These elements greatly damage and weaken your windshield. Turn on your cars defroster and use a snow brush or ice scraper. Be gentle with the ice scraper as it too can damage the windshield.
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 windshield repair.
Now you have 3 options. You can pay out of pocket, you can have your insurance company cover the cost, or you can do the repair yourself. The cost out of pocket will vary from $30-$60, depending on the company you chose. Filing with insurance is easy because it is no cost to you, and the auto glass repair company deals with the paperwork. You can also attempt the repair yourself, but if you do not feel comfortable, i would suggest calling a professional. There is a good step by step windshield repair Instructable available, as well as other information online.
BUT if they hesitate or ask questions, and more often than not, they will call you back and say, Hey wait a minute, come back (IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO APPEAR TO WALK AWAY. IT IMPLIES, NO PRESSURE, AND PEOPLE DO NOT LIKE TO BE PRESSURED OR SOLD).
As you prepare for winter travel, do not neglect your windshield. It is an essential safety feature of your vehicle and should be given the attention it requires. With a little care and maintenance, your windshield should remain in good condition all season.