UNDERSTANDING BROKEN WINDSHIELDS AND INSURANCE CLAIMS
You’re driving carefully and following all of the rules, when suddenly a rock flies up and cracks your windshield. Unfortunately, broken windshields can happen to anyone, including the best, most cautious drivers. The good news is that most insurance policies cover drivers in the event of a chipped or broken windshield.
WHY IS A BROKEN WINDSHIELD A BIG DEAL?
Many drivers think they can ignore their damaged windshield, especially if the damage doesn’t look too bad. That’s simply not a good idea. The truth is that your windshield will eventually break more. Small chips can literally spread to cover your entire windshield overnight.
The windshield provides more than just protection from wind, rain and bugs. It’s also an integral part of the structural support system. In the event of a collision, the windshield helps to prevent passenger ejections. If the vehicle rolls over, the windshield can keep the roof from collapsing and crushing the occupants. However, a chipped or cracked windshield may no longer be strong enough to provide this protection.
INSURANCE AND WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT
If the damage is extensive, the windshield needs to be replaced. Your insurance may or may not cover a full replacement. However, when the damage occurs after a collision, it should be covered under your collision coverage or by the insurance of the responsible party.
In many cases, however, windshield damage is not the result of a collision. Most insurance companies will only cover a windshield replacement if you have optional comprehensive coverage. Check your policy to see if you’re covered.
Even if the windshield replacement will be covered, you must think about the deductible. Many drivers choose to have a high deductible to keep their premiums lower. For example, it wouldn’t make sense to pay a $500 deductible if the replacement is only $300. It also isn’t wise to pay a $250 deductible for a $300 repair, since the claim may negatively affect your premiums come renewal. In this instance, it may be more affordable to pay out of pocket for the windshield.
INSURANCE AND WINDSHIELD REPAIR
Thankfully, most minor chips can be repaired by a glass expert. Repairs are also much more affordable, even without getting the insurance company involved. However, many car insurance policies cover the cost to repair a small crack or chip, usually less than 6 inches, without a deductible.
What does this mean for the driver? It’s simple. If your insurance company is willing to pay for the cost of the repair without collecting a deductible, you essentially owe nothing. This is another reason why you shouldn’t put off getting that chip repaired. It may cost you nothing to fix it now, but if you wait until it gets worse, you may be out of your deductible or more.
Before getting work done on a chipped or cracked windshield, be sure to look over your current insurance policy. If you’re not covered for auto glass repairs, you may want to speak with your agent about adding that comprehensive coverage to your policy. Be sure to contact Protech Auto Glass for an estimate to replace or repair your damaged windshield.