Windshield Damage and Insurance: An FAQ

Your car's windshield is more than just a protective barrier against the elements, as it also ensures clear visibility while driving. Unfortunately, windshield damage is common, from tiny chips due to flying debris to larger cracks that appear out of nowhere.

When this happens, it's natural to have questions about how to address the damage and whether your insurance will cover the necessary repairs or replacement. Get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about windshield damage and insurance.

Does Insurance Cover Windshield Damage?

In most cases, insurance does pay for cracked windshields. However, the underlying cause of the damage will determine the extent of coverage and the cost of repairs. Both collision and comprehensive insurance policies will pay for actual windshield damage, but they cover vastly different kinds of accidents.

Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision damages like a tree branch breaking a windshield, a hailstorm, or an animal crashing into a glass. Collision insurance applies when an incident involving another vehicle occurs.

Full glass coverage is an additional option that select auto insurance companies provide in conjunction with comprehensive deductibles. This policy can offer greater protection and normally pays for any hail, flying debris, or vandalism-related damage to the windshield.

What Deductibles Will You Pay for Windshield Repair or Replacement?

Typically, insurance policies will include a deductible that you must fulfill before the insurance provider pays any benefits. The cost of the monthly premium decreases as the deductible rises.

However, this rarely occurs when an insurance policy concerns windshield damage. You might not have to shell out anything up front for the repair cost because some jurisdictions have laws prohibiting insurance companies from applying a deductible to windshield repairs. In addition, some insurance companies provide windshield replacement and repair services without a deductible.

Additionally, you can typically choose a zero deductible when obtaining your insurance coverage, though doing so will probably result in higher costs. Lastly, certain insurance policies might only waive the deductible for side windows while charging it for front windshields. Always clarify the policy's coverage with your insurer first to understand their terms and conditions.

How Does a Windshield Claim Affect Your Premiums?

Filing a windshield claim usually does not significantly impact your insurance price, and it rarely leads to a substantial increase. The cost of your insurance may increase when you need to renew your coverage if you file numerous windshield claims in a short amount of time. A history of numerous auto insurance claims may also be a factor when you try to switch auto insurance providers.

Insurers often see multiple claims as posing a greater risk, which could lead to higher premiums. Insurers will analyze your past. Consider all the options before choosing to submit a windshield claim. If you decide whether to submit a claim, weigh the deductible and the expense of repairs. You will find it much better to submit a claim if the total price of repairs is greater than the deductible.

How Do You File for Windshield Repair With Your Insurance Company?

You must initially notify your insurance provider of the damage as soon as possible. Include as much detail as you can, ideally with pictures of the damage. The insurance company might insist that you visit a particular repair facility, but some may be more accommodating and let you pick the one you prefer.

The next step is to evaluate your windshield after alerting the insurance provider. You might want to call the authorities if your windshield was broken in a reckless driving or vandalism incident. By taking images and saving repair receipts, you can prove the harm. Compare the replacement and repair prices by getting many estimates.

Send all necessary paperwork to the insurer as soon as you and the insurance provider understand the damage's degree and the anticipated repair cost. Keep copies of any claim-related documentation, including the costs for any windshield replacement and repair services.

Don't let windshield damage compromise your safety. Contact MS Glass Outlet now if you live within the Portland and Seattle metro areas and schedule your repair or replacement.