Nationwide Auto Insurance: Understanding Windshield Replacement Coverage

If you have a cracked windshield, Nationwide auto insurance can help. Depending on your coverage and the extent of the damage, Nationwide may cover the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield. If you have comprehensive or collision coverage, also known as full coverage, Nationwide will typically waive your deductible for windshield repairs. For replacements, you may need to pay a deductible, which can range from $250 to $1000. To start a claim, you can contact Nationwide online or by phone and provide your vehicle's information, including the year, make, and model. It's important to act quickly, as even small cracks can grow over time and compromise your safety and the structural integrity of your vehicle.

Comprehensive coverage

If you have comprehensive coverage with Nationwide, windshield replacement is usually covered. However, you may need to pay a deductible, which is typically around $250. The cost of windshield repair is often fully covered by Nationwide, and the company waives the deductible for this service if you have the appropriate coverage.

It's important to report glass damage as soon as possible, even if it seems minor. Small cracks can grow over time and compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle. If you're on the road and the damage obscures your vision, pull to a safe location and put on your emergency lights.

When filing a claim for comprehensive coverage, you can start the process online or by calling 1-800-421-3535 and stating "glass only." Be prepared to provide your vehicle's year, make, and model, as well as any glass options such as a camera, heat, rain sensor, colour, or head's-up display. You can then pick the date, time, and place where you would like the repair or replacement service to be performed.

Nationwide's Glass Service Program allows you to have the work done at a repair shop in their On Your Side Claims Service Network or, if available, at your home, office, or another location. Safelite Solutions is an optional third-party administrator that can help arrange for windshield repair or replacement. While you are free to choose your own repair shop, it's recommended to call Nationwide before agreeing to any work. The work is guaranteed if you use a shop within their Claims Service Network.

Collision coverage

If your windshield is cracked or damaged in a collision that was your fault, collision coverage will cover the cost of repairing or replacing it, minus your chosen deductible amount. This coverage protects your car from any damage resulting from an accident you cause, whether with another vehicle or a stationary object.

For example, if you rear-end another car or crash into a pole and your windshield is cracked as a result, collision coverage will likely cover the repairs. This coverage can help protect you financially in the event of an accident by reducing your out-of-pocket costs for repairs.

It's important to note that collision coverage may not cover all types of windshield damage. If your windshield is damaged by something other than a collision, such as a falling tree branch or a rock hitting the glass, comprehensive coverage would typically apply instead. Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision-related incidents, often referred to as "acts of God."

When it comes to repairing or replacing a damaged windshield, it's best to act quickly. Even a small crack can spread over time and compromise the integrity of the entire windshield. By filing a claim promptly and choosing a qualified repair facility, you can help ensure your safety and avoid further damage to your vehicle.

Additionally, it's worth considering the cost of the deductible versus the repair costs when deciding whether to file a claim. If your deductible is higher than the cost of repairing or replacing the windshield, you may not receive any reimbursement from your insurer. In such cases, it may be more cost-effective to pay for the repairs out of pocket.

Repair or replace?

Whether you should repair or replace your windshield depends on the extent of the damage. If the damage is minor, such as a chip or a crack measuring less than 6 inches, it can usually be repaired. However, if the damage is more extensive, such as multiple chips or cracks, or the crack is located in the driver's line of sight, a full replacement may be necessary.

It's important to report glass damage as soon as possible, as even a small crack can grow over time and compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle. The windshield is an important structural component, helping to keep the roof stable. A cracked or improperly installed windshield can weaken the roof and increase the risk of collapse in a rollover accident.

If you have Nationwide auto insurance, your comprehensive or collision coverage may cover windshield repairs or replacement. If you choose to repair a minor chip or crack, Nationwide will waive your deductible for this service. However, if a full replacement is required, you may need to pay a deductible, depending on your state of residence and the nature of the damage.

To start a windshield claim with Nationwide, you can initiate the process online or by calling their customer service line and stating "glass only". You will need to provide your vehicle's year, make, and model, and select a date, time, and place for the repair or replacement service.

Deductibles

If your windshield has minor damage, such as a chip or crack measuring less than 6 inches, it can probably be repaired. If you have glass coverage, Nationwide will waive your deductible for windshield repairs.

If your windshield needs to be replaced, this service is usually covered by Nationwide if you have comprehensive coverage, though you may need to pay a deductible. The total amount of your out-of-pocket cost may vary depending on the extent of the glass damage, where it is located, your vehicle's make and model, and other factors.

If you have the appropriate coverage, Nationwide will waive your deductible for windshield repair at Safelite. However, if your windshield needs to be replaced, you may need to pay a deductible for this service.

Authorised repair shops

If you have a damaged windshield, Nationwide provides comprehensive coverage or other than collision coverage, depending on the facts. If the damage is minor, such as a chip or crack measuring less than 6 inches, it can be repaired. However, even small cracks can grow over time, so it's important to report a glass damage claim as soon as possible.

Nationwide offers a Glass Service Program, which allows you to get repairs done at a repair shop in their On Your Side Claims Service Network or, in some cases, at your home, office, or another location. Safelite Solutions, a third-party administrator for Nationwide's On Your Side Glass Service, can help arrange for windshield repair or replacement.

While you are free to choose your own repair shop, it is recommended to call Nationwide before agreeing to any work. The work is guaranteed if you use a shop in their Claims Service Network. The On Your Side Auto Repair Network includes only pre-screened and pre-qualified shops that offer the highest level of service.

When choosing a repair shop from the On Your Side Auto Repair Network, you will receive a written guarantee on the repairs for as long as you own or lease the vehicle. This guarantee covers the replacement of any defective alternative parts identified on the appraisal and used in the repair. Additionally, the work performed at an On Your Side Auto Repair Center includes a guarantee on the workmanship of the appraised and completed repairs for as long as you own or lease your vehicle.

To start a windshield glass claim, you can call 1-800-421-3535 and state "glass only." You will need to provide your vehicle's year, make, and model, and glass options (e.g., camera, heat, rain sensor, colour, and/or head's-up display). You can then pick the date, time, and place for the repair or replacement service.

Nationwide aims to make the claims process quick, fair, professional, and convenient, providing updates and keeping you informed throughout the process.

Frequently asked questions