Does a Windshield Replacement Count as a Claim?

Understanding Windshield Coverage

When a vehicle’s windshield sustains damage, auto insurance policies typically address such incidents. Comprehensive coverage is the primary type of insurance that generally covers non-collision damage, which includes incidents like a rock striking the windshield, vandalism, or damage from falling objects. This coverage is designed to protect against events beyond a typical car accident.

A deductible usually applies to comprehensive claims, requiring the policyholder to pay a specified amount out-of-pocket before coverage begins. For windshield damage, this standard comprehensive deductible would typically apply to a replacement. Some policies, however, offer specific glass deductibles that might be lower than the general comprehensive deductible, or even a zero deductible for glass repairs.

Some policies or regions may offer “full glass coverage” or “no-deductible glass coverage” as an add-on or an included feature. This option waives the deductible for windshield repairs or replacements. Windshield repairs, such as fixing small chips or cracks, often have a lower or no deductible compared to full replacements.

Impact on Your Insurance

A windshield replacement is considered a claim against your insurance policy. However, insurance companies often view windshield damage differently from at-fault collision claims. This distinction stems from the fact that windshield damage is typically an act of nature or an unforeseen event, rather than a result of driver error in an accident.

Filing a single windshield claim, especially for repair or replacement due to a random incident like a flying rock, is less likely to significantly increase future premiums compared to an at-fault accident claim. Insurers generally categorize these as “not-at-fault” claims, which carry a lower risk assessment for the policyholder. Insurance companies do track claims history, and a pattern of frequent glass claims or multiple claims could still lead to an adjustment in rates.

The specific impact on premiums can also depend on the policyholder’s overall claims history, the insurer’s internal underwriting guidelines, and the frequency of such claims. While one glass claim might not trigger a rate hike, repeated claims could signal a higher risk profile to the insurer. The type of claim, whether it’s comprehensive or collision, plays a significant role in how it influences future premiums and the policyholder’s perceived risk.

Filing a Windshield Claim

To file a windshield claim, contact your insurance provider directly. Many insurers offer a dedicated claims line or an online portal specifically for glass claims, streamlining the process. Have your policy number ready, along with details regarding the date and approximate time the damage occurred.

You will need to provide a clear description of the damage, including how it happened and its location on the windshield. The insurer may ask for photos of the damage to assess the extent and determine if it qualifies for repair or requires a full replacement. After gathering information, the insurer will guide you to select a repair facility.

Many insurance companies have preferred networks of glass repair shops that can directly bill the insurer, simplifying the payment process for the policyholder. While you usually have the option to choose an out-of-network shop, this might require you to pay for the service upfront and then seek reimbursement from your insurer. Once the repair or replacement is completed, the shop will handle the necessary paperwork with your insurance company, usually leaving you responsible only for any applicable deductible.