Most insurance companies will only pay for windshield replacement up to the cost of an aftermarket glass. Your insurance company can only approve an OEM glass replacement if your vehicle has a specific safety or technology specification attached to the windshield that will only work properly with an OEM windshield. If you have comprehensive insurance, you're virtually guaranteed that your windshield repair or replacement will be fully covered. Why? Because comprehensive insurance covers any non-collision damage that occurs after theft, vandalism or accidental damage.
The answer to the question: “What happens after I file my claim? may vary depending on your insurance company. However, it is important to immediately address any damage to the windshield. Even a relatively small crack in the windshield can spread quickly and become a bigger problem. A damaged windshield could compromise the stability of your entire vehicle and jeopardize the safety of you and your passengers.
Once again, it is best to contact your local Glass Doctor specialist for assistance with filing a claim to replace the windshield. In Florida, South Carolina and Kentucky, drivers cannot be charged a deductible for windshield repair or replacement. Full glass coverage, also known as windshield insurance or windshield repair insurance, is an optional addition to your car insurance policy. For example, in Texas, your car will not pass the inspection if windshield damage blocks visibility or if it affects your windshield wipers.
Cracks over six inches long are considered irreparable and need a complete windshield replacement. Comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairing or replacing a windshield damaged by falling debris, animal impact, or other non-collision hazards. Similar to comprehensive coverage, drivers generally have to pay a deductible for collision claims, unless their insurance has a windshield replacement program with no deductible. Yes, you have to pay a deductible for windshield replacement if you use your comprehensive or collision coverage.
If the windshield or other windows of the vehicle are cracked, chipped or pitted, it is incredibly important to take care of the repair or replacement of the car's glass as soon as possible. Not only does it cost more to replace the windshield, but the price also varies depending on the size and style of your vehicle. Windshield repair and replacement are usually affordable, so the cost may be less than the deductible. Liability insurance only covers windshield replacement if someone else caused damage to your car.
If your windshield cracks during an accident that was your fault, your insurance will repair or replace it if you have collision coverage. If the cost is slightly higher than your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim and paying higher premiums over time to save on windshield replacement right now. If your car insurance doesn't cover windshield replacement or glass damage, you should still do the repairs. Yes, you must use insurance to repair or replace your windshield if it would cost you more than your deductible to pay out of pocket for work.