Windshield damage can happen to anyone, and it is essential to have cracked windshields fixed right away to prevent further damage and injuries. You may wonder how your insurance plays a role in replacing your windshield. This blog will explain everything you need to know about using your insurance for a cracked windshield.
How Do I Know If My Insurance Covers Windshield Replacement?
So, does car insurance cover cracked windshield replacements? Whether your insurance will cover your windshield replacement often depends on the type of coverage you have and how the damage occurred. Let’s review the policies of the main types of car insurance you may have.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage covers damage not resulting from a collision. This may include rocks or debris hitting your windshield, hitting an animal, damage from severe weather, and theft. This insurance typically covers a windshield replacement, but you may need to pay a deductible.
- Collision Coverage: Collision coverage covers damage from crashes for which you are at fault. If you collide with another car, property, or object and choose to file a collision claim, collision coverage will usually pay for the damage minus a possible deductible.
- Liability Coverage: Liability coverage is responsible for the damage that another driver does to your vehicle. If you are in an accident where the other driver is at fault, liability insurance will likely pay for your car’s damage and medical expenses.
- Glass Coverage: Glass coverage is an add-on to your insurance that waives any deductible when your windshield is damaged. This can cost you additional money for your insurance upfront, but it may be worth it for future auto glass incidents.
How to File a Claim for Windshield Damage
The process of filing a claim for windshield damage may seem complicated, so we are here to explain what you can expect.
First, you should always start by taking photos of the damage and measuring any cracks for reference. To file your claim, you can call your insurance company, contact your local insurance agent, or file it online on your insurance company’s website. You will likely need to send the damage photos and measurements to a claims adjuster. Then, you can choose an auto glass company to handle the repairs.
After you file your claim, you will receive a claim number to track the status of your claim. Your auto glass specialist will assess the damage and repair your vehicle during this time. Finally, you will receive a claim settlement that outlines the results based on your insurance policies. Your insurance will either pay you or your auto glass repair shop directly.
Do I Need to Pay a Deductible for a Windshield Replacement?
A deductible is the amount an insurance company requires you to pay out of pocket for damage repairs. We suggest contacting your car insurance company to ask about their policy regarding deductibles.
Often, whether you pay a deductible depends on your local laws. In some states, it is against the law to require a deductible for windshield repairs. It also can depend on the extent of the damage. For instance, some insurance companies will waive the deductible for windshield repairs but require a deductible for replacements. It would help if you always start by getting a quote from your auto glass technicians to understand the expected costs.
Should I Use Insurance for my Windshield Replacement?
Sometimes, it can be difficult to determine if it will cost less to use insurance or pay without a claim for a windshield replacement. Making claims can cause your insurance rates to increase, so if you have made claims in the past, it might be best to repair your windshield yourself to save money. Additionally, if the deductible is close to the cost of paying for the repair yourself, you might not need to file a claim.
However, if you make one windshield claim, your insurance rates might not increase much. If you have comprehensive coverage or have proof that another driver is at fault, we suggest using your auto insurance. Always review the numbers and talk to your insurance company before deciding.
Does Car Insurance Cover Cracked Windshield From Rock?
Many people wonder what happens if a rock damages their windshield. Most comprehensive coverage policies will pay for windshield damage from a rock. If the driver in front of you is transporting rocks and one hits your windshield, they might be at fault. However, it typically cannot be proven that another driver is at fault.
If you’ve recently sustained windshield damage, contact Auto Glass Specialists for the premier windshield crack repair in San Diego. We commit to delivering expert services at affordable prices. For unmatched value in windshield replacement in San Diego, Auto Glass Specialists have you covered!