subject: Windshield Repair Or Replacement - What Will Insurance Cover? [print this page] Many people who have cracks or chips in their windshields may be reluctant to take their car into the auto glass shop. They may be unable to afford the repair, and unsure of the amount their insurance will cover. They also may worry about increases in premiums and expensive deductibles due to filing a claim. Fortunately, almost every insurer is fairly liberal when it comes to paying for glass damage.
A chipped or cracked windshield can be a contributing factor in an automobile accident, causing greater damage to the car or injuries to the driver or passengers. Damaged auto glass is a major safety hazard that compromises the structural integrity of a car. Thus, policyholders are encouraged to get the damage repaired as quickly as possible. Many insurers use what is known as the "dollar bill rule." If the damage can be covered completely by a dollar bill, it is often possible to repair the chip or crack. These repairs are much less expensive than a full windshield replacement, and insurance will almost always pay for it.
Many drivers may be concerned about increases in their insurance prices after filing a windshield repair or replacement claim. Fortunately, the majority of glass damage cases are classified as no fault. An individual cannot take reasonable precautions to avoid a rock striking the front window. Thus, insurers don't penalize their policyholders for being responsible and reporting the damage.
However, companies do try to discourage individuals from waiting too long. Small chips or cracks that can be repaired initially can spread, and may end up requiring a total replacement if not addressed right away. Also, since it is against the law almost everywhere to drive with a damaged windshield, a ticket resulting from this violation could be far more expensive than an insurance deductible would be.
Insurance laws, of course, vary from state to state. Some states actually have no deductible at all, even if a full replacement is required. South Carolina, for example, has no deductibles and offers full glass coverage to any individual that maintains the minimum level of coverage. In fact, it is even possible for someone without full comprehensive and collision coverage to have their automotive glass repaired without having to pay a dime.
Should a vehicle be damaged while parked on private property (such as from hail or a falling tree branch), many people believe this will require filing a claim with the property owner's insurance company. However, the best course of action is always to contact your own auto insurance claims department and explain the situation before filing a claim elsewhere.
Many people might be reluctant to opt for the less expensive glass repair instead of replacement. However, the good news is that a proper crack or chip repair done by a professional glass company is impossible to detect and will certainly be acceptable. If the fix is not successful, replacement can always be used as a last resort. The better news is that a person's insurance company should cover the damage and make it a breeze to report and fix.
by: Stephen Daniels
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