Wipers won't turn off

Earlier today I hit a large rock in the road at speed, I swerved but not enough, it hit the edge of the front tire *hard* and seemingly pinged off and took a large chip out of the rear wheel too.

Neither of those things are what I am asking about. The actual problem is that after I had pulled over 2 minutes down the road (if that) I turned my engine off and then turning the engine back on the wipers came on and stayed that way.

The rock hit the nearside wheel, I guess the relays are on that side behind the fuse box, but I don't really understand how a rock in the road buggers up the wipers.

the wiper controls still 'worked', so they'd go faster in the different positions etc, but no off when in the off position.

Earlier the stereo cut out a couple of times before stopping for good half an hour before the incident. I was guessing that there might be electrical issues and now there certainly are.

Sadly I only bought the bloody thing today so I really have no idea about history or configuration at this point.

I guess first step is get at the relay and see if it is kaput. Any one able to offer any further thoughts?

First suggestion would be to access the switch in the steering column and make sure the plug to the wiper switch is fully seated, as the incident you encountered may have jolted it a bit loose…  allegedly similar issues can happen with a semi-connected switch. 

Hi. Meant to come back and say thanks for the response.

I sorted it out by giving it a good wiggle, must have knocked it when I was swerving. Words at least all seem ok now.