As an expert in the field of auto insurance, I have encountered many questions about windshield replacement and whether it counts as a claim in Florida. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors such as your insurance provider and the type of coverage you have. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding Florida's windshield replacement law and how it affects you as a driver. First and foremost, it is important to note that if your insurance is from Florida and not from Travelers, there is no deductible for windshield replacements. This is because of Articles 627 and 7288 of Florida Law, which offer a significant advantage to Florida drivers who are covered by comprehensive insurance.
Under this law, if your windshield is cracked or broken, your insurance company must replace it at no cost. However, it is essential to understand that this law only applies to windshields and not other windows. This means that if you have comprehensive coverage, you will not have to pay any out-of-pocket costs for windshield replacement, but you will still be responsible for any other window replacements. But what exactly does comprehensive coverage entail? Comprehensive coverage is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy that covers damages to your vehicle that are not caused by a collision. This includes damages from natural disasters, theft, vandalism, and yes, even windshield damage. Now, let's dive into the specifics of Florida's windshield replacement law. In Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, insurance companies are prohibited from applying a deductible for windshield claims.
This means that if you have comprehensive coverage and meet all coverage requirements, you will not be charged a deductible when filing a claim for windshield replacement. It is worth noting that several other states also allow drivers to purchase separate glass coverage along with their comprehensive coverage. This glass coverage comes with its own deductible, which can be waived or reduced in case of windshield claims. At Progressive, we understand the importance of keeping your windshield in good condition for your safety and compliance with Florida's regulations. That's why if you have comprehensive coverage with us, you won't have to pay a deductible for windshield repairs or replacements in all 50 states, as long as you meet all coverage requirements. But what if your insurance policy does not cover windshield replacement or glass damage? In that case, it is still crucial to get the repairs done. Not only does a damaged windshield compromise your safety on the road, but it can also lead to legal consequences if not fixed promptly. Now, let's address the question at hand - does a windshield replacement count as a claim in Florida? The answer is no.
According to Florida law, windshield repairs and replacements are exempt from being considered as claims under comprehensive coverage. This means that even if you file a claim for windshield replacement, it will not affect your insurance rates or be counted as a claim against your policy. Fortunately, Florida law has provisions that help mitigate the costs associated with windshield repair and replacement. As mentioned earlier, if you have comprehensive coverage, you will not have to pay any out-of-pocket costs for windshield replacement. This ensures that you can arrange for a repair or replacement at no cost while maintaining safety and compliance with Florida's regulations. If you are unsure about your insurance coverage and whether it includes windshield replacement, it is best to consult with an expert.
At RRBH Law, we specialize in auto insurance and can provide you with a consultation to ensure that you get the windshield replacement you deserve. You can contact us at 305-800-4663 to schedule an appointment. In conclusion, windshield replacement does not count as a claim in Florida, thanks to the state's laws and provisions. As long as you have comprehensive coverage and meet all coverage requirements, you can rest assured that your windshield replacement will be taken care of without any additional costs. However, it is always best to consult with an expert and review your insurance policy to understand your coverage fully.