Windshield replacement sometimes becomes part of regular auto maintenance whenever the windshield is chipped or cracked or has any other type of damage. Many drivers begin to wonder if replacing a windshield will affect the premium paid for auto insurance or the actual coverage. This blog explains how windshield replacement interacts with auto insurance policies, exactly what drivers can expect to encounter when filing a claim, and whether your rates are affected.
Understanding Comprehensive Coverage
Windshield replacement is usually covered by the comprehensive portion of most automobile insurance policies. Comprehensive coverage protects a vehicle from damage that does not involve an impact on another car. Some examples of this include theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and impacts on animals. It also covers damage from flying debris that may chip or crack your windshield.
Filing a Claim for Windshield Replacement
If your windshield is damaged, you can file an insurance claim if you have comprehensive coverage. This usually works as follows:
- Deductible: Most comprehensive coverage policies include a deductible, which is what you pay out of pocket before the insurance starts working. While it may differ for windshield replacement, some policies provide a $0 deductible specifically for glass coverage. You should know your deductible before you file a claim.
- Repair vs. Replacement: In most cases, insurance companies will always want to repair the windshield as opposed to a complete replacement since repairs are considerably cheap. In such a case, where the damage is small, like a chip or a small crack, the insurer might pay for the repair with no charge of a deductible. However, should the damage be very bad and require a complete change, you may have to deal with the application of your deductible.
- Insurance Process: If you report the incident to your insurance company, quite frequently, they will deal directly with the glass repair or replacement service. Some insurers have preferred providers for this type of work; this would make things easier for people and ensure quality work in return.
Effect on Insurance Premiums
A common concern among drivers is whether the filing of a claim for windshield replacement will raise their premiums. The good news is that generally speaking, a windshield replacement claim is not associated with a premium increase. Here’s why:
- Comprehensive Claims: Windshield and other comprehensive claims generally will not raise your cost of insurance like collision claims do, since comprehensive claims are not considered to be indicative of the driver’s risk profile.
- State Regulations: Some states do not allow the insurer to increase premiums based on comprehensive claims, which include windshield replacement; however, you should also check with your insurance company about the specifics of your policy and state regulations.
- Frequency of Claims: Although a single windshield replacement claim would not raise your premiums, claiming a number of times within a reasonable period could raise your premiums in rates. The insurance companies do take the frequency of the claims when risk assessment is involved.
Preventive Measures and Things to Keep in Mind
To avoid frequent windscreen repairs or replacement, the following needs to be taken into consideration:
- Avoid Following Too Closely: Leave adequate space between you and other vehicles, especially trucks, to avoid objects falling off and breaking your windshield.
- Park Safely: Where possible, do covered or sheltered parking to keep your windshield safe from hail and other weather elements that may cause damage.
- Repair Chips Immediately: If chips or small cracks appear on the windscreen, get them repaired as soon as possible before they spread and require a whole replacement.
Conclusion
Any windshield replacement that is covered under comprehensive insurance typically will not raise your premiums. Submitting a claim normally is fairly painless, especially if you have a zero or low deductible for glass coverage. Although claims made against comprehensive coverage are not factored into your insurance rating, always remember to consult with your insurance company for any fine print in your policy or varying state laws. Taking preventative measures may also help reduce the possibility of windshield breakage and potential repair or replacement.
This post was written by a professional at At Home Auto Glass. At Home Auto Glass is your prime destination for auto glass services, catering to a diverse array of vehicles and needs. We work with insurance companies to get your new windshield today! Specializing in windshield repair and replacement, we ensure clarity and safety for every drive. Our expertise doesn’t end there; we also offer back glass replacement, side window replacement, and cater to specific needs for RV glass, commercial vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars, ensuring that every vehicle type is serviced with precision and care. Proudly serving Florida, our reach extends across Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, Tallahassee, Ocala, Gainesville, and Jacksonville. Call us now to get your quote for your mobile windshield replacement Jacksonville FL