Will Insurance Cover My Cracked or Chipped Windshield?
Discovering a crack/chip on your windshield gets your mind racing. You begin asking serious questions like: Will insurance cover a cracked windshield? Also, does insurance cover windshield repair? The answer depends on the type of coverage included in your policy.
A comprehensive insurance policy covers windshield damage caused by flying debris, theft, vandalism, natural events (hailstorms so fierce that they smash through an SUV’s sunroof), etc. But liability insurance policies might not cover damage to your own vehicle (like the windshield). So, let us dig deeper and learn more about chipped windshield insurance coverage.
Car Glass Damage Insurance: 4 Major Types
- Comprehensive Coverage: As we explained just now, this primary insurance covers it all. You name it! It covers windshield damage from non-collision incidents. Imagine your car gets hit by rocks on a highway, or falling tree limbs smash it. These policies include glass repair and replacement benefits.
- Liability Coverage: This is the minimum required coverage that protects others against the damage you have caused (suppose you cause an accident that makes a driver get a cracked windshield). But it doesn’t cover your own vehicle’s damages. If your windshield ends up chipped or cracked, this policy won’t do you any good.
- Collision Coverage: If your windshield were smashed in an accident, you need collision insurance to get compensated for its repair costs. It also covers the cracked windshield replacement cost. But keep in mind that collision coverage tends to be optional and can even involve a deductible!
- Full Glass Coverage: Some insurance providers do offer extra glass insurance. You get it as a separate policy or a bundled one. It gives you dedicated glass coverage with very reduced or no deductible for repairs & replacement. Think of it as a smart add-on favor for your vehicles (mainly the ones prone to windshield damage).
Do You Repair Your Damaged Windshield or Replace it?
Minor windshield chips or cracks are repairable; that’s good news for you. If they are less than a dollar bill in size, you’re covered. Repairing your windshield prevents spreading. It also reduces the need for costly full replacements. Many insurers encourage repairing over replacing to keep costs down & safety margins high. That’s what all automobile experts will tell you.
But when your windshield has sustained extensive damage, you may have to replace the whole thing. Replacing your smashed windshield becomes necessary in these conditions:
- The damage is obstructing your view (as the driver)
- It penetrates multiple layers of your windshield
Your insurance policy can vary in how it covers replacement costs, deductibles, and repairs. So, we suggest reviewing your policy carefully and consulting your insurer for specifics. Don’t forget about looking after your automobile’s body to ensure its longevity & well-maintenance.
Typical Exclusions and When Insurance Applies?
Neglect & Poor Maintenance
Insurance policies don’t include damage caused by neglect. If you didn’t maintain your car and its windshield properly, you’re out! For example, if you ignored an existing chip and it expanded over time, your insurer may deny your claim. So, will insurance cover a cracked windshield caused by the owner’s neglect? The answer is a resounding NO, we’re afraid!
Liability Insurance Limitations
Your state laws make liability insurance mandatory. But this insurance covers property damage caused to others in an accident. It doesn’t cover the damage to your four-wheeler. That’s why a liability policy doesn’t help you when you have a cracked windshield. The cost of replacing this one will come out of your pocket. Unfortunately!
State Regulations & Deductible Waivers
Some states also require that insurers offer deductible waivers or full coverage for glass repairs. When it comes to chipped windshield insurance coverage in this case, you can get money to repair chips/cracks in your windshield before they worsen. If you live in Florida, your insurer may waive deductibles for minor fender-benders that have caused a crack in the windshield.
Policy-Specific Glass Coverage Exclusions
Not all collision or comprehensive policies include full glass coverage. Mind you! Some policies may exclude certain types of windshield damage or restrict coverage to repairs only. An insurer may offer you “full glass coverage” (it’s optional) as an add-on or endorsement; it will reduce (or completely get rid of) deductibles for glass claims.
Collision Insurance Coverage
Was your windshield damage caused by a collision or accident? Did your car hit another car? Your collision coverage can help you reduce the overall cracked windshield replacement cost in the end! You can use it to repair your windshield and (in some cases) replace it altogether.
Note that collision claims often come with higher deductibles than comprehensive ones; using collision coverage may affect your premium. Moreover, if another driver is at fault, you may be able to claim against their insurance for windshield repair costs.
What Should You Do After Sustaining Windshield Damage?
After we learn how to claim insurance for windshield damage, we need to look into the steps to take after our windshield gets smashed. You need to:
- Inspect the damage by taking photos for insurance purposes
- Notify your insurer and report the damage (even start a claim right away)
- Choose certified auto glass technicians and get a Protector windshield ASAP
- Resist the urge to make DIY repairs, as your home kit may fail to restore the hidden structural damage to your windshield
- Cover windshield cracks with clear tape for the time being (it makes sure that dirt and moisture won’t make things worse for you)
Get Chipped Windshield Insurance Coverage Now
Let’s answer your query one more time. Does insurance cover windshield repair? Yes, your car insurance most likely covers a chipped windshield. If you have comprehensive insurance policies, a big YES. Liability insurance policy holders may check with their providers just to be sure! Knowing your policy details helps you make sense of your insurance claim very easily.
Want to keep your windshield in top shape all the time? Find out how Protector Automotive’s A1 window tint and protective films help prevent future cracks and chips. Explore our blog and case studies for more expert advice on automotive care and protection. Install a PPF today and get the best car paint protection available.
