As an insurance expert, I have encountered many drivers who are unsure if their car insurance covers windshield replacement. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors such as the state you live in, the type of coverage you have, and the extent of the damage to your windshield. In this article, I will break down the different scenarios and provide you with all the information you need to know about car insurance and windshield replacement. Firstly, let's discuss the states that require insurers to replace windshields without applying a deductible. Currently, only three states - Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina - have this requirement.
This means that if you live in one of these states and have comprehensive coverage in your auto policy, you won't have to pay a deductible for a covered claim. This is great news for drivers in these states as it can save them a significant amount of money. However, if you live in any other state, your insurance company may offer separate glass coverage with options for no or lower deductible. This means that you can add this coverage to your policy for an additional cost and have the peace of mind knowing that your windshield will be covered in case of damage. Now, let's talk about comprehensive coverage. This type of coverage can cover a cracked or broken windshield, minus the deductible.
It is important to note that comprehensive coverage is not mandatory in most states, so it's up to you to decide if you want to add it to your policy. But for your safety and to protect against further damage, it is highly recommended to consider repairing or replacing your windshield when there are signs of cracking or chips. If you have both comprehensive and collision coverage, then you usually have coverage for car glass repair, including full windshield replacement. This is great news for drivers who have both types of coverage, as it means that they are fully covered in case of any damage to their windshield. But what if you only have comprehensive coverage? In this case, you should still be covered for auto glass repair, including full windshield replacement. However, it's important to note that not all car insurance covers windshield replacement.
If you have your state's minimum insurance, which is the minimum amount of coverage needed to drive legally, you may not have insurance that covers windshield repair or replacement. Therefore, it's crucial to review your policy and make sure you have the necessary coverage. Now, let's talk about when it's best to replace your windshield instead of repairing it. A good rule of thumb suggests that if a crack in the glass is at least 6 inches long, it's wiser to completely replace the windshield. This is because repairing a crack of this size may not be as effective and could lead to further damage in the future. Lastly, let's discuss how different types of coverage can be applied to a windshield that needs to be repaired or replaced.
If your windshield is damaged due to falling debris, hitting an animal, or other unexpected events, comprehensive coverage may cover the cost of repairing or replacing it minus your deductible. On the other hand, if the damage is caused by a collision with another vehicle or object, then collision coverage will come into play. And if you are found at fault for the accident, liability coverage will cover the cost of repairing or replacing the other party's windshield. In conclusion, whether your car insurance covers windshield replacement depends on various factors such as your state's laws, the type of coverage you have, and the extent of the damage. It's important to review your policy and make sure you have the necessary coverage to avoid any unexpected expenses.
And remember, if your insurance doesn't cover windshield replacement, it's still crucial to get the repairs done for your safety and the safety of others on the road.