Does My Car Insurance Cover Windshield Repair?
Gain clarity on whether your auto insurance policy covers windshield damage and learn the steps to make a claim.
A damaged windshield often leaves vehicle owners wondering about insurance coverage. Understanding your car insurance policy’s approach to windshield repair or replacement is important for managing costs. Auto insurance policies offer financial protection against various types of damage, including glass components.
Understanding Your Auto Policy’s Coverage
Damage to your vehicle’s windshield is covered under comprehensive auto insurance for non-collision incidents. This coverage protects against damage from falling objects like rocks or debris, vandalism, theft, fire, hail, or animal impacts.
Comprehensive coverage differs from collision coverage, which addresses damage from accidents involving another car or a stationary object. It also differs from liability coverage, which covers damages you might cause to others or their property.
Policies may treat windshield repairs differently from full replacements. Minor damage, such as small chips or cracks less than 6 inches long, can be repaired. Some insurance policies cover these repairs at 100% with no deductible applied. However, if the damage is extensive and requires a full windshield replacement, a deductible applies.
Deductibles and Windshield Claims
A deductible is the amount of money you are responsible for paying out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage begins to pay for a covered claim. When filing a comprehensive claim for windshield damage, this deductible applies to the cost of repair or replacement. For example, if your comprehensive deductible is $500 and a windshield replacement costs $700, you would pay the first $500, and your insurer would cover the remaining $200.
Many policies offer “full glass” or “zero-deductible glass” options as endorsements to comprehensive coverage. This option waives the deductible for windshield repairs or replacements. Availability and terms vary by insurer and state regulations, with some states mandating a zero deductible for glass claims if comprehensive coverage is carried.
Consider the cost of the repair relative to your deductible. If a minor chip’s cost is less than your comprehensive deductible, it is more cost-effective to pay for the repair out-of-pocket rather than filing a claim. This approach helps avoid involving your insurance policy for small amounts, which could impact claims-free discounts.
Steps to File a Windshield Claim
Initiating a windshield claim begins by contacting your insurance provider. You can do this through their claims department via phone, mobile application, or online portal. Having your policy number available and being prepared to describe the date and nature of the damage will expedite this step.
The insurer will require details about how the damage occurred and request photographs to assess the extent of the crack or chip. They may recommend a preferred network of auto glass repair shops, or you have the option to choose your own repair facility. Some insurers have direct billing arrangements with certain shops, simplifying the payment process.
Once the repair or replacement is approved, schedule the service with the chosen glass company. If a deductible applies, pay this amount directly to the repair shop at the time of service, and the insurance company will cover the remaining balance. Keep records of all communications and documentation related to your claim for future reference.