Windshield cracks and other glass damage can be an unfortunate disruption to your daily routine. If the damage is bad enough, you may not even be able to drive your car until it’s fixed.
Furthermore, the newer your car is, the more likely it is that your windshield will be expensive to replace. While new technologies such as sensors that detect precipitation and coatings that block the sun are useful while driving, they are also expensive. Gone are the days of a $150 windshield replacement. Today, you may pay $1000, $2000, or even more to replace a fancy windshield.
There’s good news though.
First of all, if someone else caused the damage (because of a collision, for example), their property damage liability insurance should pay for the damage so your insurance won’t have to.
Next, if someone else was not at fault, most auto insurance plans can help you when it comes to windshield damage and other glass claims.
Finally, although you should always check with your insurance provider, it’s unlikely your premiums will go up as a result of a glass claim.
Now, let’s talk about how to go about making your insurance claim.
Steps to Making an Auto Insurance Glass Damage Claim
1. Go over your policy.
You should have a copy of your policy at home, and if you don’t, simply ask your insurance agent.
Check your policy for possible coverage of glass damage. This is a fairly standard type of coverage. It’s likely the damage you’ve incurred falls under one of two categories on your plan:
- Comprehensive Coverage
- Full Glass Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage is the most common. After your Comprehensive Coverage Deductible has been paid, this type of insurance will pay for your windshield damage repair.
More thorough auto plans may also have Full Glass Coverage. This is common in states where glass damage tends to be common. For example, in Florida, it’s a typical feature of auto plans and offers one full windshield replacement per year with a $0 deductible.
In other states and with individual insurance companies, the laws may vary. But basically, if you have this type of coverage, you’ll be able to get your windshield fixed or replaced with either a $0 deductible or a deductible that is considerably lower than average.
2. Speak to your agent about filing a claim.
The claims process should not be difficult, but you should start it as soon as possible. There are time limits for all insurance claims. File your claim online if you can, or call your agent.
3. Figure out if the damage should be repaired or replaced.
In large part, this won’t really be up to you. If your insurance is covering the fix, it’s typical for them to want to repair the problem. This is only if it’s possible (if the damage is larger than a dollar bill, replacement is often necessary).
In the end, if your insurance agency decides to cover a repair, don’t let that bother you. These days, windshield repairs are exceedingly seamless. The process generally entails cleaning of the damaged area and the injection of a special resin. The result is smooth, and the “scar” is unnoticeable.
4. Don’t let it happen again.
Windshields with fancy technology are becoming increasingly expensive to replace. Prevent having to deal with a broken windshield in the future by not:
- Parking under trees
- Leaving your car unprotected in bad storms (especially when they involve hail)
- Frequently driving on gravel roads
- Driving on the shoulder
- Driving behind construction trucks or other vehicles hauling small, hard materials (like gravel)
- Driving too closely behind semis
Couri Insurance Agency can help you file your glass damage claim. We also have a number of comprehensive insurance coverage policies available if you’re looking for a new policy. Call us today or stop in to our office to learn more.
