Windshield Coverage: What Auto Insurance Policies Include

Windshield damage is a common issue for vehicle owners, and it's important to know what type of auto insurance provides coverage for repairs or replacement. In most cases, comprehensive and collision insurance will cover windshield damage. Comprehensive insurance covers damage not caused by a collision, such as a tree branch falling on your car or an animal collision, while collision insurance covers damage caused during a crash. Some companies also offer auto glass coverage, which can apply to chips, cracks, and full replacements. It's recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and any applicable deductibles.

Comprehensive coverage

In some states, insurers are required to offer windshield replacement without a deductible, including Arizona, Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina. These states have laws in place that require insurers to provide automatic full glass coverage for those who purchase comprehensive coverage.

If you have comprehensive coverage and need to repair or replace your windshield, you should file a claim as soon as possible. You may be able to file a claim online, over the phone, or through a third-party provider. Your insurance company may then direct you to a specific glass shop or mobile service to repair or replace your windshield.

Collision coverage

In addition to collision coverage, comprehensive coverage is another important component of auto insurance. Comprehensive coverage typically applies to damage caused by falling debris, such as tree branches, or collisions with animals. It also covers events that are sometimes referred to as "acts of God," which include unforeseen events like hail damage or rocks striking your windshield. Comprehensive coverage generally involves a deductible as well.

It's important to understand the differences between collision and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage focuses on accidents and collisions with other vehicles or objects, while comprehensive coverage is more broad and covers various types of damage not caused by collisions. Comprehensive coverage is often purchased alongside collision coverage to provide a more comprehensive level of protection for your vehicle.

When it comes to choosing between repairing and replacing your windshield, there are a few factors to consider. If the damage is not close to the perimeter of the windshield and is not in the driver's line of sight, repairing it may be a suitable option. On the other hand, if the damage is near the edge of the windshield or impedes the driver's vision, replacement is usually recommended.

It's worth noting that the cost of repairing or replacing a windshield can vary depending on factors such as the make and model of your vehicle, the type of glass used, and the extent of the damage. Therefore, it's advisable to consult a professional to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.

Full glass coverage

When purchasing full glass coverage, it's important to note that this coverage is not automatic and must be added separately for each vehicle on your policy. Additionally, full glass coverage typically only applies to glass repair or replacement and may not cover other types of damage to your vehicle.

It's also worth mentioning that some insurance companies may have specific requirements for repairing or replacing your windshield. For example, they may require you to use a certain repair shop or network of shops to perform the work.

Overall, full glass coverage can be a valuable addition to your car insurance policy, especially if you live in an area where windshields are prone to damage from falling debris or other hazards. By having full glass coverage, you can avoid the hassle and expense of paying a deductible to repair or replace your windshield.

Deductibles

The amount you pay in deductibles depends on several factors, including the type of insurance you have, the state you live in, and the extent of the damage.

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance company may pay for a cracked or broken windshield, minus your deductible. However, some companies, like Progressive, offer a $0 deductible option for glass-only replacement claims in certain states.

In general, if you have full glass coverage, you may pay a low deductible or no deductible at all for windshield repairs. Some insurers will waive your deductible if the damage is minor and can be repaired instead of replaced. This is because they want to avoid the possibility of having to replace the windshield down the road if the damage spreads.

The cost of repairing a windshield generally falls around $150 for a single chip or crack less than six inches. If your deductible is over that amount, it is not worth filing a claim, and you should pay out of pocket.

If you have a $50 or $100 deductible, it is still recommended to pay out of pocket, as filing a claim may cause your insurance rates to increase, especially if you have made previous claims.

If your deductible is less than $1,000, you should get an estimate of the cost to repair or replace the windshield to determine whether the cost is higher than your deductible.

Some states have laws regarding windshield deductibles. Arizona, Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina are "zero-deductible" states, meaning insurers are required to offer windshield replacement without a deductible. In Arizona and Massachusetts, insurers have the option of offering a $0 deductible for glass repair and replacement, but they are not obligated to.

In Connecticut, Minnesota, and New York, you can purchase full glass coverage, which is an add-on to comprehensive insurance that waives the deductible for glass repairs.

When to File a Claim

It is generally worth filing a claim for glass or windshield damage if the repair cost is higher than your car insurance deductible. For example, if your windshield replacement costs $400 and your deductible is $250, you will only pay $250, and your insurer will cover the remaining $150.

Filing a claim

When it comes to filing a claim for windshield damage, there are several steps you should follow to ensure a smooth process. Here is a detailed guide on how to file a claim:

Step 1: Contact Your Insurance Company

It is important to notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the damage occurs. Most companies allow you to file a claim by calling their customer support or submitting a claim through their website or mobile app. Have your policy details and information about the damage readily available.

Step 2: Provide Necessary Information

When filing a claim, you will need to provide specific details about the incident. This includes the date and time the damage occurred, the vehicles involved, how the damage occurred, your contact information, and your policy number. Additionally, you may need to provide information about the damage itself, such as the size and location of any cracks or chips in the windshield.

Step 3: Understand Your Coverage

Before proceeding with repairs, it is crucial to understand your insurance coverage. If you have comprehensive coverage, it typically covers windshield damage caused by falling objects, vandalism, or collisions with animals. On the other hand, if the damage occurred during a car accident, collision coverage will come into play. Review your policy or contact your insurance provider to confirm your coverage details.

Step 4: Choose a Repair Shop

Your insurance company may have a network of preferred repair shops, or they may allow you to choose your own. If you select a shop outside of their network, ensure that the cost of the service will be fully covered by your insurance. It is worth noting that some insurance providers work directly with specific auto glass repair shops to streamline the billing and repair process.

Step 5: Pay Your Deductible

In most cases, you will need to pay a deductible for windshield repair or replacement. This amount varies depending on your policy and the repair costs. Some insurance companies offer a disappearing deductible option, where the deductible decreases if no claims are made for a certain period. Confirm with your insurance provider if your deductible applies to windshield repairs or replacements.

Step 6: Keep Records and Receipts

Throughout the repair process, make sure to keep all records and receipts related to the repairs. These documents will be necessary for reimbursement from your insurance company. Take photos of the damage before the repairs and retain any invoices or estimates provided by the repair shop.

Remember, it is essential to act promptly when dealing with windshield damage. File your claim as soon as possible, and don't wait too long to have the repairs done, as the damage can spread over time. By following these steps, you can effectively navigate the claims process and ensure your windshield is properly repaired or replaced.

Frequently asked questions