Auto Windshield Insurance: What's The Deductible Deal?

Whether or not an auto windshield is subject to an insurance deductible depends on the type of insurance coverage you have. If you have comprehensive coverage, your auto insurance will likely cover windshield repair or replacement, minus your deductible. Some states, such as Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, are zero-deductible states, meaning insurers cannot charge a deductible for repairing or replacing your windshield. Additionally, some insurance companies may waive deductibles for minor windshield repairs. If you have collision coverage, it will typically cover windshield damage caused by a car crash, minus your chosen deductible.

Comprehensive coverage

Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina are "zero-deductible" states, meaning that all comprehensive car insurance policies are required to pay in full for windshield replacement or repair in these states. Arizona, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Minnesota, and New York are states that offer full glass coverage as an add-on to comprehensive insurance, which waives the deductible for glass repairs.

If you have comprehensive coverage and need to repair or replace your windshield, you should file a claim as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely a chip or crack is to spread, resulting in higher repair costs. If the damage costs less than your deductible, it may be more cost-effective to pay for the repairs out of pocket rather than file a claim.

Collision coverage

When it comes to collision coverage and windshield repairs or replacements, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, if your windshield is damaged in a car accident involving another vehicle or a stationary object, collision coverage will typically apply. This is different from comprehensive coverage, which covers damage caused by events other than collisions, such as falling debris or severe weather.

It's also important to note that the cost of repairing or replacing a windshield can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the make and model of your car. In some cases, repairing a windshield may be more cost-effective than replacing it entirely. Additionally, some insurance companies may waive the deductible for minor windshield repairs, so it's important to review your specific policy and understand its coverage and exclusions.

In summary, collision coverage can provide valuable protection in the event of a car accident that results in windshield damage. By understanding the terms of your collision coverage and taking prompt action to repair or replace a damaged windshield, you can help ensure that you're protected on the road and minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

Full glass coverage

If you have comprehensive coverage, you should be covered for auto glass repair, including a full windshield replacement. However, this coverage is subject to a deductible. This is where full glass coverage comes in.

Some major insurance companies that waive windshield deductibles include:

• Nationwide (if you have glass coverage)
• Allstate (repairs when additional waiver is purchased)
• American Family (repairs but not replacements)
• Liberty Mutual (repairs but not replacements)
• Progressive (repairs but not replacements)
• State Farm (only where legally required)
• Travelers (repairs but not replacements)
• USAA (repairs but not replacements)

It is important to note that repairing a windshield is generally less expensive than replacing one. Therefore, it is worth considering the cost of repairs or replacement compared to your deductible when deciding whether to file a claim.

Deductible waivers

When it comes to auto windshield insurance, there are a few scenarios in which your deductible may be waived. Firstly, it's important to understand what a deductible is. A deductible is an amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if your repair cost is $2000 and your deductible is $500, you pay the initial $500, and your insurance company covers the remaining $1500.

Now, let's explore the scenarios where your deductible may be waived for auto windshield repairs or replacements:

• Collision Insurance Coverage: If your windshield was damaged due to a collision with another vehicle, the standard collision insurance of the at-fault driver should cover the repairs or replacement of your windshield.
• Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Some comprehensive insurance plans cover all types of vehicular damage, including windshield damage. Certain comprehensive plans also waive the deductible amount for windshield repairs or replacements. Check with your insurance provider to see if your plan includes this waiver.
• Zero-Deductible States: Some US states, such as Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, are zero-deductible states, meaning all deductibles can be waived. In these states, if you have comprehensive insurance, your windshield repairs or replacement may be deductible-free.
• Full Glass Coverage: In certain states, you can purchase full glass coverage as an add-on to your comprehensive insurance plan. This add-on waives the deductible for glass repair or replacement. This option is particularly useful in states with harsh weather conditions or environmental factors that can damage your windshield.

It's important to note that even if your deductible is not waived, you should still consider claiming your insurance and paying the deductible, as it can save you money compared to paying the full cost out of pocket. Additionally, some insurance companies may offer to waive or reduce your deductible even if it is not mandated by state law.

Repair vs replacement

Whether you should repair or replace your auto windshield depends on several factors. Firstly, consider the impact of the damage on the driver's visibility and safety. If the crack or chip is within the driver's line of sight, replacement is recommended, as repairs may leave a slight mark that impairs vision. Additionally, the size, depth, and location of the damage are crucial. As a general rule, if the damaged area is less than the size of a dollar, repair is usually possible. However, if the damage is more extensive, or there are multiple chips or cracks, replacement may be necessary to restore the structural integrity of the windshield.

Another factor to consider is the extent of the damage. If only the outer layer of glass is affected, repair may be sufficient. However, if the inner layer is also broken, or there is damage to the plastic layer between the glass layers, replacement is typically required. The location of the damage in relation to the outer margin and corners of the windshield is also important. Damage close to the edges or corners may require replacement, as it can weaken the structural integrity of the glass and is more likely to spread due to vibrations and stress while driving.

The advantages of repairing car glass include cost-effectiveness, quick turnaround times, and the preservation of the original glass's durability and visibility. On the other hand, replacement ensures the highest level of visibility and restores the integrity of the car in cases of extensive damage or cracks reaching the frame. While it is more expensive and time-consuming, replacement may be the safest option in certain situations.

Frequently asked questions