Direct Auto Insurance: Windshield Replacement Covered?

Whether you're covered for windshield replacement depends on your insurance policy and the circumstances that led to the damage. If you have comprehensive insurance, windshield damage is typically covered unless it was caused by a collision with another vehicle. Comprehensive insurance covers damage due to natural disasters, acts of God, and vandalism. Collision insurance helps pay for repairs or replacement if you're in an accident, regardless of fault. If the other driver is at fault, their liability coverage would usually pay for repairs or replacement.

Comprehensive auto insurance

Comprehensive coverage is particularly useful if you cannot afford to repair or replace your vehicle out of pocket. It is also often required by lenders if you are leasing or financing your vehicle. This type of coverage can give you peace of mind, knowing that you are protected against a range of unforeseen events.

In the context of windshield replacement, comprehensive coverage can be beneficial. If your windshield is damaged by a rock or another object, comprehensive insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement. However, it's important to note that you may still have to pay your insurance deductible for glass claims, depending on your state's regulations and your policy details.

Direct Auto Insurance offers comprehensive coverage, which includes windshield and glass claims. They have partnered with Safelite, a company that provides convenient in-store or mobile glass repairs and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a lifetime warranty on repairs for as long as you own or lease your vehicle. Direct Auto Insurance emphasizes the safety concerns associated with a cracked or broken windshield and encourages customers to address these issues promptly.

Collision auto insurance

If you own your vehicle outright and choose not to carry collision coverage, you will have to pay for repairs or a replacement vehicle out of pocket if you're involved in a single-vehicle accident or are at fault in an accident. If the other driver is at fault, their liability coverage will typically pay for the damage.

Collision coverage can be particularly useful if you're unable to pay for repairs or a replacement vehicle out of pocket. It can also provide peace of mind if you drive an expensive car or are unable to drive a damaged vehicle, as it can help you pay for expensive repairs or a replacement.

It's important to note that collision insurance won't cover damage from non-traffic events, such as running into a deer, extreme weather, or theft. It also doesn't cover damage or injuries caused to others while driving, medical costs from injuries to yourself or your passengers, personal belongings inside your car, or normal wear and tear.

When deciding whether to get collision coverage, consider the value of your vehicle and your ability to pay for repairs or a replacement without insurance. If your vehicle is brand new or still worth a considerable amount, collision coverage may be a good idea. On the other hand, if you drive an old car with a low market value, collision coverage may not be worth the cost.

Full auto glass coverage

The cost of full auto glass coverage varies depending on your location, driving history, type of vehicle, and insurance provider. However, it typically costs only an additional $5 to $10 per month, making it a cost-effective way to add complete windshield protection to your policy.

Even with reputable companies, windshield repair can be expensive. The replacement cost for a windshield is around $200-$400 on average, and even more if an aftermarket windshield is used. Auto glass damage is typically covered by comprehensive insurance. However, many people have a comprehensive deductible that is higher than this cost, which is why full glass coverage is offered by many insurance providers. If your windshield is just cracked or chipped, the repair will likely cost under $100.

Full glass coverage can save you money in the long run. The average cost to replace auto glass is usually less than your auto policy's deductible. For example, if it costs $500 to repair your windshield and your deductible is $1,000, your insurance company wouldn't be involved, and you would be responsible for the entire cost. With full glass coverage, you wouldn't have to worry about these out-of-pocket expenses.

Some auto insurance companies, such as Geico, may waive the deductible for small repairs, such as cracks or chips smaller than a dollar bill. However, if your windshield needs to be completely replaced, the comprehensive deductible would typically apply, and you would likely have to pay for the replacement yourself. With full glass coverage, you wouldn't be required to pay this deductible, making it a valuable addition to your policy.

When choosing full glass coverage, it's important to review the specific terms and conditions of your policy. Some common limitations include exclusions for glass damage caused by wear and tear or pre-existing conditions, coverage limits that may not fully cover high-end glass replacements, and restrictions on the number of glass claims you can make within a certain period.

Direct Auto's glass repair process is easy, thanks to their partnership with Safelite. Safelite offers convenient in-store or mobile glass repairs, a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and a lifetime warranty on repairs for as long as you own or lease your vehicle.

When to file a claim

The first step in filing a claim for windshield replacement is to review your insurance coverage. Check your policy to see if you have comprehensive or collision coverage, as these typically cover windshield repairs and replacements. If you live in a state with "zero-deductible" laws, such as Florida, Kentucky, or South Carolina, you won't have to pay a deductible for windshield repairs or replacements. Some insurance companies also offer a "zero-deductible" option for glass replacement, which is separate from your comprehensive deductible.

If you have comprehensive coverage, your policy will likely cover windshield damage caused by events unrelated to a collision, such as animal collisions, fires, vandalism, or storm damage. On the other hand, if you have collision coverage, it will usually cover windshield damage resulting from a car accident.

It's important to note that some insurance companies require you to file a claim before making any repairs. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and initiate the claims process. They may ask for details about how the damage occurred and request photos of the damage.

When deciding whether to file a claim, consider the extent of the damage. If the crack in your windshield is at least six inches long, a complete replacement is generally recommended. For smaller chips or cracks, a vehicle glass professional may be able to repair the damage without removing the entire windshield. Your insurance company or a glass specialist can advise you on whether repair or replacement is the best option.

In some cases, the cost of repairing a windshield may be lower than your deductible. In such cases, it may not be worth filing a claim, and you may choose to pay for the repairs yourself. However, even small chips or cracks can quickly spread, so it's important to address windshield damage promptly to ensure your safety and avoid further damage.

How to file a claim

To file a windshield damage claim with Direct Auto Insurance, you should first notify the company as soon as possible. Direct Auto Insurance can be contacted by phone at 1-855-326-1882. The company's glass partner, Safelite, will then take your glass claim information and help determine whether the damage can be repaired or if the windshield needs to be replaced.

After you have reported your claim, Safelite will schedule your appointment. They offer in-shop and mobile glass repairs and will help you schedule the type of repair appointment that is most convenient for you.

It is important to note that driving with a cracked or broken windshield is illegal in some states, and you could be ticketed depending on the severity and location of the crack. Therefore, it is recommended that you do an internet search for your state's windshield laws before deciding to postpone a windshield or glass repair.

If you need to file a general auto insurance or life insurance claim instead, you can call 1-800-403-1077 to learn how to make a claim.

Frequently asked questions