Auto Insurance: Windshield Damage Covered?

Whether your auto insurance covers windshield damage depends on the type of insurance you have. If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will likely cover auto glass repair, including a full windshield replacement. Comprehensive coverage can pay for a cracked or broken windshield, minus your deductible. Collision coverage will typically cover windshield damage that results from a car accident, though you may need to pay a deductible first. If you live in a zero-deductible state, you won't have to pay a deductible for windshield repair or replacement.

Comprehensive coverage

Since windshield and glass damage are some of the most common comprehensive claims made, many insurance companies offer separate windshield deductibles. For example, you may be able to select a $0 windshield deductible, which means you won't have to pay anything to replace a windshield in a covered loss. Alternatively, you may be able to choose a $100 glass deductible option, which applies a $100 deductible for glass-only claims.

Comprehensive insurance typically covers windshield damage from problems like theft, fire, flood, hail, falling objects (like a tree branch), and collisions with animals. It is optional coverage but is usually required if you have a car loan. The cost of comprehensive insurance varies, but it averages $339 a year with a $500 deductible.

Collision coverage

The cost of collision insurance varies depending on the deductible amount you choose. On average, collision insurance with a $500 deductible costs $788 per year. However, if you have a higher deductible, such as $1,000 or more, you may end up paying more in the long run. In this case, it might be worth considering a “zero deductible” option for glass replacement, which is separate from your comprehensive deductible.

If your windshield is damaged in an accident, it's important to file a claim as soon as possible, even before any repairs are made. You can do this by contacting your insurance company online or by phone and providing them with details and photos of the damage. Keep in mind that the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield will depend on the extent of the damage, your car's make and model, and the type of glass used.

Full glass coverage

It's important to note that full glass coverage is not automatic and can be added or removed for each individual vehicle on your policy. When purchasing auto insurance, be sure to review your policy carefully to ensure you have the coverage you need. If you're unsure, contact your insurance agent to discuss your specific coverage and whether full glass coverage is right for you.

Additionally, keep in mind that glass damage should be addressed promptly. Even a small chip or crack can quickly spread and affect the strength and integrity of your windshield. If the damage obstructs your line of vision, it may be illegal to operate your vehicle, and many states have laws against driving with a cracked windshield. Therefore, it's essential to repair or replace your windshield as soon as possible to ensure your safety and comply with local regulations.

Deductibles

Whether you have to pay a deductible for windshield damage depends on the type of claim you file and the state you live in.

If you file a collision or comprehensive claim, you will have to pay your deductible before your insurance provider will contribute. However, if you file a full glass claim, you won't have to pay a deductible.

Some states have "zero-deductible" laws that say auto insurance companies cannot apply a deductible for comprehensive insurance glass claims. These states include Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina. In these states, you should not have to pay a deductible for a replacement.

Additionally, some insurance companies offer a $0 deductible option for glass-only replacement claims. This option is separate from your comprehensive deductible and will cost you extra, but it could save you money in the long run if you have a high deductible.

When deciding whether to file a claim, it's important to consider the cost of the repairs compared to your deductible. If the repair cost is higher than your deductible, it is generally worth filing a claim. On the other hand, if the repair cost is less than your deductible, you may want to pay for the repairs yourself.

It's also worth noting that some glass repair shops may patch small cracks for free, so it's a good idea to get a quote from a repair shop before filing a claim.

Filing a claim

If you have a damaged windshield, it is recommended that you get it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. If you have the right type of car insurance, you can use it to pay for these costs.

To file a windshield damage claim, you must notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurers allow you to contact them by phone or online. They will likely ask you how the damage occurred and may request photos of the damage.

Before filing a claim, assess the extent of the damage. If the crack is at least six inches long, a complete windshield replacement is recommended. For smaller chips or cracks, a vehicle glass professional may be able to repair the windshield without removing it. If you are unsure, your insurance company or a glass specialist will be able to advise you.

To file a windshield claim:

• Photograph and measure the damage to determine whether a repair is sufficient.
• File a claim online, over the phone, or by visiting your local insurance agent.
• Provide the photos or size of the damage to your claims adjuster.
• Choose a glass and windshield specialist from the options provided by your insurance company. You may need to take your vehicle to a facility, or you can use a mobile windshield service that comes to you.

Deductibles

Whether you need to pay a deductible for a windshield claim depends on the state you live in and the type of insurance you have. In "zero-deductible" states, including Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, you do not need to pay a deductible for windshield repair or replacement. In other states, you may need to pay a deductible, which can range from $250 to $1,000.

If you have comprehensive insurance, your deductible will usually be subtracted from your insurance check for a claim. However, with glass repair or replacement claims, you may pay the deductible amount directly to the repair shop.

Frequently asked questions