I have an ipad2 and the screen shattered. It still works but is there a way to safely fix it without having to buy a new one?

Question

We were on April vacation this past week and my ipad fell onto the road and shattered the screen. I can still get onto it and maneuver around my apps but the screen is spider webbed and shattered. I have heard their are screen kits you can but to replace yourself, but the reviews are mixed. They also say to be careful of the wi fi wires because you can severly screw it up. This was a huge purchase for me and I can't afford to get another one. What can I do? Best Buy says they aren't allowed to replace the screens from Apple products and I have heard Apple just sells you a new one at a lower cost. Is there a way for me to replace the screen myself?

Answer 1

Back it up befor you go to the Apple store for a replacement or sending it out for rapair.
If you get a replacement iPad:
How to Transfer Everything from an Old iPad to New iPad
http://osxdaily.com/2012/03/16/transfer-old-ipad-to-new-ipad/
Apple's Limited Warranty http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty/ for iPad excludes coverage for damage resulting from accident, disassembly, unauthorized service and unauthorized modifications. 
Out-of-Warranty Service
     If you own an iPad that is ineligible for warranty service but is eligible for Out-of-Warranty (OOW) Service, Apple will replace (Apple doesn't repair) your iPad with an iPad that is new or equivalent to new in both performance and reliability for the Out-of-Warranty Service fee listed below. (The replacement will most likely be a refurbished iPad in a brown box, however, it has a new screen, back and battery.)   
iPad model
Out-of-Warranty Service Fee
iPad mini
$219
iPad 3rd, 4th generation
$299
iPad 2, iPad
$249
A $6.95 shipping fee will be added if service is arranged through Apple and requires shipping. All fees are in US dollars and are subject to local tax.
Certain damage is ineligible for out-of-warranty service, including catastrophic damage, such as the device separating into multiple pieces, and inoperability caused by unauthorized modifications. However, an iPad that has failed due to contact with liquid may be eligible for out-of-warranty service. See http://support.apple.com/kb/index?page=servicefaq&geo=United_States&product=ipad
Make a Genius Bar Reservation
http://www.apple.com/retail/geniusbar/
You may can get the iPad repaired at 3rd party repair sources for less $, however, any remaining Apple warranty will be voided.
iPad Repair & Screen Replacement Services
http://www.ifixyouri.com/16-ipad-repairs
RepairZoom iPad Repair
http://www.repairzoom.com/ipad-repair.html
Mission Repair
http://www.missionrepair.com/Apple_iPad_Repair_Services_s/431.htm
iGadgetResQ
http://www.igadgetresq.com/ipad-repair/
 Cheers, Tom