Understanding Windshield Repair Coverage In Auto Insurance Policies

Whether you should use your auto insurance to repair a cracked or broken windshield depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the cost of the repair, and your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurer will likely cover the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield, minus your deductible. Some insurers may even waive the deductible for windshield repairs. However, if the cost of repairing your windshield is less than your deductible, you may want to pay for the repairs yourself.

Comprehensive insurance and collision insurance

Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your vehicle caused by events unrelated to a collision. This includes damage from falling objects, such as tree branches, rocks, or hail, as well as collisions with animals, theft, fire, and flooding. Comprehensive insurance is typically required if you have a car loan. It usually comes with a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Comprehensive insurance costs an average of $339 per year with a $500 deductible, according to Forbes Advisor.

In some cases, comprehensive insurance may cover windshield repair or replacement. For example, if a tree branch falls on your car and damages the windshield, comprehensive insurance could pay for the repairs or replacement, minus your deductible. Comprehensive insurance may also cover windshield damage caused by hail, rocks, or vandalism.

It's important to note that comprehensive insurance typically does not cover windshield damage resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. In those cases, collision insurance would be the relevant coverage.

Collision Insurance

Collision insurance covers vehicle losses and repairs caused by a crash. If your windshield is cracked or damaged in an accident, such as colliding with another vehicle or a stationary object like a pole, collision insurance will likely cover the repairs or replacement, minus your chosen deductible. Collision insurance is often referred to as "basic" insurance and may be required by your state for vehicle registration. It costs an average of $788 per year with a $500 deductible, according to Forbes Advisor.

Full Glass Coverage

In addition to comprehensive and collision insurance, some insurance companies offer full glass coverage as an add-on to comprehensive insurance. This option is specifically for glass repairs or replacements and often includes a $0 deductible. Full glass coverage can be beneficial if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or environments that are prone to causing windshield damage, such as dust, heat, or wind.

Zero-Deductible States

It's important to note that some states, including Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, have "zero-deductible" laws for comprehensive insurance glass claims. In these states, insurance companies cannot apply a deductible for windshield repairs or replacements, meaning you won't have to pay anything out of pocket if your comprehensive insurance covers the damage.

Full glass coverage

The cost of full glass coverage varies depending on the insurance company and the make and model of your vehicle. Newer vehicles with advanced features may have higher replacement costs. The annual average cost of full coverage car insurance in the United States is $1,674 per year.

When purchasing auto insurance, it is important to consult with an independent agent to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs.

Repair vs replacement

Whether you should repair or replace your windshield depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, your insurance policy, and the cost of repairs. Here are some considerations to help you decide:

Repair vs. Replacement:

• Safety: The most important factor is safety. A damaged windshield can compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle and its ability to protect you in a collision. If the damage affects the driver's visibility or weakens the glass, it should be replaced. Repairing chips or cracks that fall within the driver's line of vision is generally not recommended, as it may still impair visibility even after repair.
• Damage Assessment: Evaluate the size, depth, and location of the damage. If the crack is shorter than 12-14 inches or the chip is smaller than 1 inch, repair may be possible. If the damage is larger or affects the inner layer of glass, replacement is recommended. Damage near the edges or corners of the windshield may also require replacement, as it can quickly spread and affect the stability of the entire windshield.
• Cost: Repairing a damaged windshield is typically more cost-effective than a complete replacement. The cost of repairing a single chip can range from $40 to $100, while the average cost of replacing a standard windshield is between $250 and $400. The cost may be higher for luxury or high-tech vehicles with advanced safety features.
• Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policy to understand what type of coverage you have. Comprehensive insurance typically covers windshield damage caused by events other than a collision, such as falling objects or vandalism. Collision insurance covers damage resulting from a crash. Some insurance companies offer full glass coverage or a "zero deductible" option specifically for glass replacement, which can save you money if you have a high deductible.
• State Regulations: Certain states, like California, have laws regarding windshield damage that may require you to replace your windshield if it affects your visibility or safety. Check your local regulations to ensure compliance.

In conclusion, while repairing your windshield may be a more convenient and affordable option in some cases, replacement is necessary for more extensive damage, especially if it affects safety, visibility, or stability. It is always recommended to consult with a glass repair specialist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Deductibles

When it comes to deductibles and windshield repair, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, check your car insurance policy's deductible amount. Common deductible amounts for comprehensive and collision insurance typically range from $250 to $1,000. If the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield is less than your deductible amount, you may have to pay for the repair yourself. For example, if your deductible is $500 and the cost of replacing your windshield is $250, the replacement cost is less than your deductible, so you would have to pay for the replacement yourself.

Secondly, consider the state you live in. A few states, including Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, have "zero-deductible" laws for comprehensive insurance glass claims, meaning you won't have to pay a deductible for windshield repairs or replacements. In these states, insurance companies are not allowed to sell full glass coverage with a deductible.

Additionally, some insurance companies offer a "zero-deductible" option for glass replacement, which is separate from your comprehensive deductible. This option will cost you extra, but it can be beneficial if you have a high deductible.

Before filing a claim, it's a good idea to get an estimate from a repair shop to see how much the repair will cost. If the repair cost is close to your deductible amount, you may want to pay for the repairs yourself to avoid paying the deductible.

Finally, if you have comprehensive coverage, most auto insurers will waive the deductible for windshield repairs, but not for glass replacement. So, if you only need to repair a chip or a small crack, you may not have to pay a deductible at all.

Filing a claim

The first step in filing a claim for windshield repair is to review your insurance coverage. Check your policy to verify that you are covered for repairs. Most comprehensive insurance policies cover windshield damage, but it is important to confirm this with your insurance provider.

Once you have confirmed that you are covered, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. You can usually do this by phone, online, or in person. They may ask you how the damage occurred and request photos, so be prepared to provide this information.

Your insurance company will then provide you with directions on how to proceed. They may ask you to go to a specific repair shop, or they may be more flexible. Be sure to ask about any time limitations for filing claims and submitting bills, as well as when you can expect to hear back from them.

After your windshield has been repaired, be sure to submit the receipt and any other required documentation to your insurance company. This typically includes your name, policy number, phone number, and the date of the damage.

It is important to note that filing a claim for windshield damage typically will not increase your premium. However, if you have multiple claims over a short period, it could impact your rates at renewal time.

Frequently asked questions