Does Car Insurance Cover Cracked Windshields: A Comprehensive Guide

Multiple unpredictable factors can lead to major windshield damages, such as flying debris, unexpected weather conditions, or accidents. In such cases, it is crucial to understand the damage’s severity and when to opt for a full windshield replacement.

This article will help you decide about windshield damage and how your cracked windshield insurance can help you.

Types of Car Insurance Coverage

If you’re a first-time car owner or someone who doesn’t quite understand how car insurance works, here is a list of coverages to consider regarding auto glass repair and replacement:

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance protects you in case you injure someone in an accident or damage their property. It is the most common type of insurance; however, it doesn’t cover any damages to your vehicle.

Collision Insurance

This type of insurance comes in handy, especially when you own a newer or expensive car. Collision insurance covers the costs of any damage caused to your vehicle in an accident, regardless of whose fault it is.

Comprehensive Insurance

This insurance concentrates more on covering damages that are non-collision-related. For example, if a severe hailstorm strikes your area and damages your windshield, having comprehensive insurance will help you cover the costs.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

PIP covers the costs of any injuries caused to you in an accident, no matter who is at fault.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Suppose a motorist runs a red light and causes damage to your vehicle. In such a case, this insurance will cover your expenses. Even if that driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance, you won’t be left with paying the expenses yourself.

How Does Insurance Coverage for Windshield Repair or Replacement Work?

This section will help you understand how coverages work for windshield repair or replacement, ensuring you save time and money.

Check Your Insurance Policy

Firstly, read your auto insurance policy thoroughly and look for clauses that mention windshield repair or replace it. Understand the deductibles and coverage limits in the policy. Generally, comprehensive coverage includes windshield damage.

Assess the Damage

Understanding the type of damage to your windshield will help you decide whether it can be easily repaired or needs complete replacement.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

Insurance experts will guide you through the insurance processes, coverage included, and how to claim it.

Choose a Reliable Repair Shop

Insurance companies will help you locate reliable auto glass repair shops nearby. Using a reliable provider ensures that the repair/replacement is done properly and covered by your insurance.

File a Claim

You need to keep all your policy documents and details of damages ready to file a claim.

Pay the deductible

Some comprehensive policies allow full glass coverage without a deductible for cracked windshield insurance repairs.

Repair or Replace

When your papers get approved, you can proceed with the windshield replacement or repair. Make sure you get the warranty for any work that’s done.

 

Does Car Insurance Cover Crack Windshields Without a Deductible?

One of the common questions car owners ask is, “Does car insurance cover crack windshields without a deductible?” The answer depends on what policies you choose for your car.

Some comprehensive insurance policies offer full glass coverage, which means you can get your windshield repaired or replaced without paying a deductible.

Not all policies need to provide this feature. Therefore, keep in touch with your policy providers to understand and review your insurance policy.

When Does Insurance Not Cover Windshield Damage?

Here are some pointers when your policy might not cover the damages to your windshield:

• Policy Exclusions: Always be familiar with your insurance policies. Some policies do not cover certain types of damages.
• Expired Policy: Always keep your policy up-to-date, as policies that have lapsed won’t cover any damages.
• Neglect and Wear and Tear: Insurances won’t cover for damages caused by negligence or gradual deterioration.
• High Deductibles: When your cost of repair/replacements is less than your deductibles, you will have to pay.
• Non-Comprehensive Policies: non-comprehensive policies won’t cover you for damages caused to your windshields that involve events like hail or vandalism.

Alternatives If Insurance Does Not Cover Windshield Damage

Out-of-Pocket Payment: Simply paying yourself, for the minor damage to the windshield, is a simple solution.

• Windshield Repair Kits: You don’t always need to claim for minor cracked windshield insurance. Some minor damage can be repaired with reliable DIY kits.
• Discount Programs: Look for auto glass repair shops that offer discount programs for car owners without any insurance. These discounts can make windshield repair affordable.
• Seek Professional Advice: Always consult with a professional auto glass technician to understand the severity of damage and how to plan the best course of action.

Conclusion

Maintaining your vehicle’s windshield in good condition is critical for your safety. Though car insurance may cover the cost of repairing or replacing a cracked windshield, it depends on the specifics of your policy.

While comprehensive coverage typically handles windshield damage caused by non-collision events, like debris or weather-related incidents, a policy with a deductible may cost you a portion of the expense unless your insurer offers a zero-deductible option for glass repair.

Therefore, always select the best policy and ensure that your car insurance covers cracked windshields to keep your mind at peace.

In case your car’s windshield needs a minor repair or a complete replacement service, look no further than NuVision Auto Glass for reliable, quality service.

So get a quote today and schedule an appointment with us for affordable auto glass solutions!