How Many Windshields Are Covered by Insurance in South Carolina?

When a vehicle’s windshield sustains damage, auto insurance helps mitigate unexpected costs. Understanding how an insurance policy applies to windshield repair or replacement is important, as coverage can differ based on the policy and state laws.

South Carolina Windshield Repair and Replacement Law

South Carolina has specific regulations concerning windshield damage coverage, often referred to as a “zero-deductible” or “full glass coverage” law. Under South Carolina Code Section 38-77-280, automobile insurers are prohibited from applying a deductible to claims for automobile safety glass. This means that if a vehicle is covered by a comprehensive insurance policy, the policyholder typically incurs no out-of-pocket cost for windshield repair or replacement. This provision applies to damage from various incidents, including road debris, vandalism, or natural disasters, as long as comprehensive coverage is in force.

The intent of this law is to encourage prompt repair of windshield damage, which is important for vehicle safety. While the South Carolina law waives the deductible for windshield glass, it is important to understand that this does not mean the repair or replacement is “free”; rather, the cost is covered by the comprehensive portion of the insurance policy, for which premiums are paid. The law specifically applies to safety glass, which includes windshields, but generally does not extend to other types of vehicle glass like side windows or rear windows, which may still be subject to a deductible.

Understanding Your Policy Coverage

While South Carolina law mandates a waived deductible for windshields under comprehensive coverage, the broader aspects of your auto insurance policy remain relevant. Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision incidents, such as theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and damage from falling objects or animals. Windshield damage typically falls under this coverage type. If your policy only includes liability insurance, which covers damages you cause to others, windshield repair or replacement costs will not be covered and would be an out-of-pocket expense.

For damages not covered by the state’s zero-deductible law, such as damage to side or rear windows, or if you do not carry comprehensive coverage, a deductible would apply. Deductibles for comprehensive coverage commonly range from $250 to $1,000, and choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium but increases your out-of-pocket expense for covered claims. The decision to repair a small chip versus replacing an entire windshield can also impact costs, with repairs generally being less expensive and sometimes covered without a deductible.

Filing a Windshield Claim

To file a windshield insurance claim, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after discovering the damage. You will need to provide details such as the date the damage occurred, the circumstances surrounding it, and a general description of the damage. Most insurance companies have claims departments or online portals for this initial reporting.

After reporting the claim, your insurer may recommend a preferred repair facility or allow you to choose your own auto glass service provider, which is your right under South Carolina law. The chosen repair shop will inspect the damage and submit an estimate directly to your insurance company for approval. Once approved, the repair or replacement can be scheduled at your convenience, often with mobile service options available. The auto glass company will typically handle the direct billing to your insurer, eliminating the need for you to pay upfront, especially if your deductible is waived.