Will auto insurance pay for windshield repairs?

A cracked windshield is most definitely not something any car owner would want to discover. In addition to being unsightly, cracked windshields undermine the ability to see an unobstructed view of the road.

Traffic officers and state highway patrol officials won’t ignore a cracked windshield either. A citation is sure to be issued due to the unsafe nature of the damaged windshield.

In short, the windshield needs to be repaired and repaired right away. Obviously, repairing a windshield comes with costs. The big question for any driver is “Will my car insurance pay for a replacement windshield?”

The short answer is, “It all depends.”

Compare car insurance options today and find the coverage you desire for the right price!

Comprehensive and Collision Coverage Determinations

First and foremost, unless the driver has comprehensive insurance coverage, then the insurance company is not going to pay for a cracked windshield.

In most states, the requirement to buy car insurance is rooted in purchasing liability coverage protects against damage to another person or to property.

If a falling rock traveled from the side of a mountain and cracked a car windshield, liability insurance would not cover this. The driver would need comprehensive insurance in order to file a successful claim.

• Comprehensive coverage is designed to cover non-vehicular accident damage to a vehicle.
• Collision insurance would cover losses related to an accident with another vehicle. Specifically, damage that is inflicted upon the insured car.

Compare Insurance Providers Rates to Save Up to 75%

Auto Home Health Life Business Motorcycle Dental Pet Medicare Rental

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Paying the Deductible

Those who took out comprehensive and/or collision coverage do need to understand they will still be responsible for paying the deductible on the claim.

A deductible refers to the out-of-pocket costs paid by the insured before the insurance coverage commences. One policy may have a higher deductible than another. Usually, the higher the premium, the lower the deductible.

Of course, it may also possible to acquire a “no deductible” policy if one chooses to pay accordingly.

The possibility of an insurance company waiving a deductible does exist. Generally, this is done when someone else was at fault for the damages or there were other extenuating circumstances.

Certain policies may even have a collision deductible waiver (CDW) available for an added fee on the premium. Such a rider would eliminate the deductible in the scenario an accident is the fault of an uninsured motorist.

Keep the issue – and cost – of a deductible in mind when looking for reliable car insurance.

Examining the rules and expenses associated with a high or low deductible is advisable when comparing auto insurance quotes. Consider it most advisable to review as many insurance quotes and documents as possible before settling on a choice.

Repair vs. Replace

Good news is available to those who do not want to pay a lot of money on a deductible might be able to explore repair options. A small crack on a windshield may be easily fixed.

In fact, there are do-it-yourself kits available that are more than adequate to fix a minor problem. Those who are not mechanically inclined may wish to take the car to a repair shop and have the task done.

An auto insurance policy would not cover such minor damage. Additionally, a mechanic can make the most appropriate determination regarding whether or not the windshield needs to be fixed or replaced.

Check the Vehicle’s Warranty

New cars usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Sometimes, even used cars may come with a warranty. The warranty may or may not cover the costs associated with repairing or replacing a cracked windshield.

Checking with a dealer is worth the time and effort. If the windshield can be repaired or replaced under a warranty, then there is no reason to file an insurance claim.

No claims mean nothing ends up listed on an insurance CLUE report and no deductibles need to be paid. (For more information, read our “What is a CLUE report for insurance?“).

That said, warranties usually only cover stress fractures and other defects. Warranties would not cover impact or accident-related damage.

Compare Insurance Providers Rates to Save Up to 75%

Auto Home Health Life Business Motorcycle Dental Pet Medicare Rental

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Investing in the Right Insurance

Not everyone thinks that purchasing collision or comprehensive coverage is worth the money. Then, one day, damage such as a crack on the windshield appears.

For nominal additions to an insurance policy, a windshield – and more – can end up being covered. Check as many policies and providers as possible to get the best rates on this type of expanded coverage.

Compare car insurance companies side-by-side today to find the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

Case Studies: Auto Insurance Coverage for Windshield Repairs

Case Study 1: John’s Comprehensive Coverage

John owns a vehicle and has comprehensive car insurance coverage. One day, while driving on the highway, a rock hits his windshield, causing a crack. Concerned about the repair costs, John contacts his insurance company to inquire about coverage.

As John has comprehensive insurance, his policy covers non-vehicular damage to his vehicle, including windshield repairs. However, he is informed that he needs to pay the deductible before the insurance company will cover the repair or replacement costs.

Case Study 2: Sarah’s Liability Coverage

Sarah, unlike John, only has liability coverage for her car insurance. One morning, she discovers a crack on her windshield caused by a fallen branch.

Sarah contacts her insurance company to file a claim but learns that liability insurance does not cover damages to her own vehicle, including windshield repairs. Since Sarah doesn’t have comprehensive coverage, she would need to pay for the repair or replacement out of pocket.

Case Study 3: Mark’s Collision Deductible Waiver

Mark has comprehensive collision coverage for his car insurance. While parked, his car is hit by another vehicle, resulting in a cracked windshield. Mark reports the incident to his insurance company, and since he has a collision deductible waiver as part of his policy, he doesn’t need to pay the deductible for this particular claim.

The insurance company covers the repair costs for his windshield, as the accident falls under the coverage provided by his collision insurance.

Case Study 4: Lisa’s Warranty Coverage

Lisa recently purchased a new car that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. When a small crack appears on her windshield, she visits the dealership to inquire about coverage.

The dealer informs her that the warranty covers stress fractures and defects but does not include impact or accident-related damage. Since Lisa’s windshield crack is due to impact, it is not covered under the warranty. She may need to file an insurance claim or pay for the repair herself.

Compare Insurance Providers Rates to Save Up to 75%

Auto Home Health Life Business Motorcycle Dental Pet Medicare Rental

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption