Your windshield is insured against damage and breakage as part of your auto insurance policy. Learn everything you need to know about windshield replacement insurance and what to do if your windshield gets damaged.
What is Windshield Replacement Insurance?
Windshield replacement insurance is special coverage designed to cover the cost of windshield repair or replacement. Depending on where you live and what caused the damage, this will typically be part of your collision or comprehensive coverage. Some states require drivers to purchase special coverage for complete glass repair.
In most cases, the insurance company won’t pay to fix or replace your windshield if you don’t have comprehensive collision or special glass repair coverage. However, if you’re in an accident where someone else is at fault, they will be responsible for replacing or repairing your windshield. Many insurance companies will even waive deductibles for comprehensive claims where repairs are minor, but you must pay the deductible for expensive repairs or complete replacement.
When to Use Insurance to Replace Your Windshield
In many situations, you’ll want to use your insurance to cover the cost of windshield repair or replacement. Of course, you wouldn’t let insurance cover this expense if you have a higher deductible than the replacement cost. Windshield replacement often runs between $200 to $600, so if your deductible is higher than the replacement cost, you may choose to pay out of pocket.
Here are some situations where you’ll want to use your insurance coverage for windshield replacement.
Accident Damage
As mentioned, if an accident caused damage to your windshield, it’s best to let insurance foot the bill. Primarily if someone else is found at fault, you should contact the insurance company immediately because this means you won’t have to pay or deal with insurance on your end.
Total Replacement
The cost of a new windshield is costly. New windshields could cost anywhere from $200 to $1,500 or more, depending on the glass itself, features, and the style of the windshield or the vehicle. So if you find yourself in need of replacing your windshield, let insurance help cover the costs.
Low or No Deductible
Some people have comprehensive or collision coverage with a low deductible or a zero deductible. If you are one of these people, it’s usually more affordable for you to pay the deductible and let insurance pick up the tab on the rest of the windshield replacement cost.
How to File a Windshield Damage Claim
Once you’ve decided to file a claim with your windshield replacement insurance provider, there are specific steps that you need to take. Following the steps below will ensure everything goes smoothly.
Check Your Coverage
As mentioned, if the damage is the result of an accident, it will either be covered by the other person’s insurance if they were at fault or by your collision coverage if your windshield is damaged or breaks due to weather, acts of nature, or other non-accident causes. If your insurance is paying the claim, check your deductible, too.
If you have a $1,000 deductible, for example, and the windshield replacement is only $350, paying for it out of pocket would be cheaper. On the other hand, if you have a zero deductible or even a $100 deductible, it would be worthwhile to file the claim.
Call Your Insurance Company
In order to file a claim, contact your insurance provider. Let them know that you have an auto glass claim, and they will provide the information you need and guide you through the next steps. They will request information from you, including what happened (if you know), your contact information, and more.
Schedule the Repair or Replacement
The insurance company will give you the go-ahead to seek repair services for your windshield once you file the claim. They may give you a list of repair shops or glass companies, or they may tell you that you can visit the shop of your choice and they’ll take care of the bill. In either case, you’ll want to schedule your replacement promptly so you can get back on the road.
Find a Reputable Windshield Replacement Service Near You
Regardless of who’s paying for the work, you need to find a reliable, experienced auto glass repair shop that can help with your windshield replacement needs. Visit them or call for mobile service and have them inspect the damage for you in order to provide an accurate estimate of the work needed and what it will cost.
Use Glass.com to find a reputable glass shop. Many of the shops on Glass.com focus on auto glass replacement and repairs. When you type in your zip code and enter your vehicle information, you’ll see the glass shops in your area.
Choose a company that has the experience that you deserve. Make sure that they work with insurance to handle claim-related damage and cover the bill so you don’t have to do the work yourself. You’ve already got enough on your plate.
If you’re in the market for windshield replacement and have found yourself filing an insurance claim, be sure to explore Glass.com, where you can find all of the best glass repair and replacement services for windshields and more.
