Auto Glass Business Insurance: Coverage Types and Costs

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As a business owner in the auto glass industry, you know how crucial it is to protect your company from unexpected expenses. Liability insurance, for example, can help cover costs if your business is sued for damages or injuries.

Liability insurance typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 per year, depending on the size and type of your business. This coverage is a must-have for any auto glass business, as it can help prevent financial ruin in the event of a lawsuit.

Business owners should also consider property insurance to protect their physical assets, such as vehicles, equipment, and buildings. Property insurance can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per year, depending on the value of your assets.

In addition to liability and property insurance, auto glass businesses may also want to consider workers' compensation insurance to cover medical expenses and lost wages for employees who are injured on the job.

Auto Glass Business Insurance

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Auto glass business insurance is a must-have for companies that repair and replace windshields and auto glass. It protects you from costly repair and replacement bills.

If you don't have special glass coverage, you'll have to pay all windshield and auto glass repair and replacement costs yourself. This can be a significant financial burden, especially if you're a small business.

There are two main types of auto glass coverage: comprehensive coverage and full glass coverage. Comprehensive coverage covers glass damage from non-collision-related incidents.

Comprehensive coverage requires you to pay a deductible when you file a glass claim. Full glass coverage, on the other hand, often waives your auto glass deductible, so you pay nothing for covered glass repairs and replacements.

Here's a comparison of the two types of coverage:

Types of Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is a must-have for auto glass business insurance, covering damages from non-collision-related events like vandalism, theft, and natural disasters.

Comprehensive policies typically include windshield damage, but may require a deductible, which can range from $50 to $1000, depending on the policy.

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Full glass coverage, on the other hand, specifically covers damages to the windshield and other vehicle glass without a deductible, but may involve a slightly higher premium.

In some states or regions, full glass coverage is mandated, so it's essential to check your local laws and regulations.

Here are the key differences between comprehensive and full glass coverage:

Comprehensive coverage is a great option if you want to save on premiums, but be prepared to pay a deductible in case of a claim.

Who Needs Additional Coverage

If you frequently drive on gravel roads or highways where road debris can crack glass, additional coverage is smart. Urban drivers are less likely to benefit from this type of coverage.

Consider your deductible amount: if you have a high comprehensive deductible like $1,000, a full glass rider can save you money in the event of a claim. This can be a major cost-saver for those who drive in areas prone to accidents.

Some states require $0 glass deductibles when you have comprehensive coverage, so full glass might be unnecessary if you live in one of these areas.

Who Needs Additional?

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If you frequently drive on gravel roads or highways where road debris can crack glass, it's a good idea to consider additional coverage.

Some states have laws that make full glass coverage unnecessary, such as Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, where a $0 glass deductible is required when you have comprehensive coverage.

If you have a high comprehensive deductible, like $1,000, a full glass rider can save you money in the event of a claim.

High-tech windshields with sensors and cameras can cost $1,000+ to replace, making extra coverage a good option for peace of mind.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding if you should add comprehensive or full glass protection:

Who Needs Full?

If you drive frequently on gravel roads or highways where road debris can crack glass, additional coverage is a smart move. This is especially true for drivers who have a high deductible amount, like $1,000, as it can save you money in the event of a claim.

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High-tech windshields with sensors and cameras can cost over $1,000 to replace, making extra coverage a good idea. In fact, some states like Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina require $0 glass deductibles when you have comprehensive coverage, making full glass unnecessary.

If you log lots of highway miles or have a cracked windshield history, the extra coverage can pay for itself quickly. This makes high-risk drivers good candidates for no-deductible glass riders.

If you live in a state that lets insurers charge glass deductibles like $500 or $1,000+, full coverage can majorly benefit you. States without $0 glass deductible laws are a good indicator that full coverage is a good option.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding if you should add comprehensive or full glass protection:

  • Where you drive: Gravel roads and highways can be hazardous for your windshield.
  • Your deductible amount: High deductibles can make extra coverage a good idea.
  • Windshield replacement costs: High-tech windshields can be very expensive to replace.
  • State laws: Check if your state requires $0 glass deductibles with comprehensive coverage.

Ultimately, it's essential to evaluate your situation and risk factors to determine if comprehensive or full glass makes sense for your needs and budget.

Damage Coverage

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Damage coverage is a crucial aspect of auto glass business insurance. Comprehensive insurance typically covers damages, but it costs an average of $339 a year with a $500 deductible.

You might not need comprehensive coverage if you have a basic liability-only policy, but this type of policy might not cover side glass replacement. Collision or comprehensive coverage might be necessary for adequate protection.

If you do experience windshield damage, it's essential to get it repaired right away. Minor chips and cracks can lead to weakened windshields, degraded driver vision, and even harm to vehicle control.

Here are some common causes of windshield damage that may be covered under comprehensive insurance:

  • Stray baseballs or gravel kicking up from a truck on the highway
  • Vandalism, such as rocks thrown through your side window
  • Hail damage to your sunroof
  • Fallen tree branches shattering your back windshield

Why Damage Matters

Windshield damage can have serious consequences, even if it seems minor. Further impacts can worsen damage, making it a ticking time bomb on the road.

Small cracks can impair driver vision, creating a risk of accidents. This is especially true in situations where visibility is already compromised, such as in heavy rain or fog.

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Windshield damage can also harm vehicle control, inhibiting windshield wipers or sensors. This can lead to reduced visibility and increased risk of accidents.

In many states, windshield damage is not only a safety concern but also a legal issue. In Florida, for example, a $0 glass deductible is mandated, and cracks causing view obstruction can fail inspection.

Here are some specific state laws regarding windshield damage:

It's essential to get comprehensive insurance coverage to repair problems right away and drive safely.

Damage Coverage

If you've got comprehensive insurance, you're likely covered for side glass replacement, which can cost an average of $339 a year with a $500 deductible. This is according to Forbes Advisor's analysis.

Comprehensive insurance is a must-have if you want to protect yourself from the financial burden of repairing or replacing damaged side glass. Basic liability-only policies might not cover side glass replacement.

Minor glass chips and cracks can have real consequences, including weakening windshields, degrading driver vision, harming vehicle control, often spreading over time, and being illegal in many states. This can prompt fines, so it's essential to get comprehensive insurance coverage.

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Comprehensive insurance coverage can help you repair problems right away and drive safely. You can use any licensed glass repair shop without referrals, just like with Geico's comprehensive protection.

Some insurance providers, like Progressive, offer comprehensive plans with $0 glass deductible riders in select states. However, policyholders must use approved glass shop networks to control claim costs.

You should file a comprehensive claim anytime you suffer auto glass damage from something other than a collision, such as a stray baseball or hail. Documenting proof of the damage, like photos or police reports, will help your insurer cover the claim minus your deductible.

If you have a liability-only policy, you may have to pay for the replacement yourself. But don't worry, our team is here to help with your claim and provide a competitive glass replacement estimate if needed.

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect when filing a comprehensive glass claim:

When to Repair

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If you have a small rock chip or a crack under 6 inches, it's often best to repair it. This is because repair is usually far cheaper than replacement, and it can prevent the damage from getting worse.

Repairing small damage can also save you time without a vehicle, which is a major inconvenience. Plus, you get to maintain the use of your original factory glass.

According to the experts, small rock chips, cracks under 6 inches, and damage away from the driver's sightline can often be effectively repaired. This is a great option because it's often free with insurance, and it prevents existing damage from worsening.

Here are some benefits of repairing small windshield damage:

  • Far cheaper than replacement (often free with insurance)
  • Prevents existing damage from worsening
  • Avoid time without a vehicle
  • Maintain use of original factory glass

Frequently Asked Questions

Does business insurance cover windows?

Yes, business insurance typically covers window repairs, but often with a deductible. However, some rental agreements may require a separate glass insurance policy.

Do you need insurance for Safelite auto glass?

No insurance is required for Safelite auto glass services. We offer competitive prices for self-pay options to get you back on the road quickly and safely

Helen Stokes

Assigning Editor

Helen Stokes is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail. With a background in journalism, she has honed her skills in researching and assigning articles on a wide range of topics. Her expertise lies in the realm of numismatics, with a particular focus on commemorative coins and Canadian currency.

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