Can I Change My Insurance to Cover a Windshield?

You can change your insurance to cover a windshield, but it depends on the type of policy you have. If you have comprehensive coverage, you're likely already covered for windshield repairs or replacements.

Some insurance companies offer optional glass coverage, which can be added to your policy for a small fee. This coverage can help pay for windshield repairs or replacements, even if you don't have comprehensive coverage.

Most states require insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield repairs, so you won't have to pay out-of-pocket. This can be a big relief if you're not prepared for the expense.

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You can find out if your auto insurance covers windshield replacement or repair by checking your policy declarations page, which outlines your coverage types and amounts.

Comprehensive coverage typically includes repair and replacement of non-collision damage like cracks and breaks from rocks, weather, or vandalism. Collision coverage, on the other hand, covers damage from accidents, but not all policies include windshields under collision.

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To determine if your policy covers windshield replacement or repair, you can also call your insurance company or agent directly and ask about your specific policy. They can help you understand what's covered and what's not.

If you're unsure about your policy, you can also log in to your insurance company's online account portal to view your declarations page and claims forms.

Some insurance companies may not require a deductible for auto glass claims, while others may require you to pay a deductible. You can check with your insurance company to see how an auto glass claim may affect your deductible and out-of-pocket expenses.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when it comes to insurance coverage for windshields:

Filing a claim for a cracked windshield is a relatively straightforward process. You can start by notifying your insurance provider, which can be done online or by talking with your insurance agent.

The next step depends on how your windshield got cracked. If it was an act of vandalism, you'll want to notify the police and get a copy of the report. This is an essential aspect of your claim in many cases.

Some insurers may require you to go to the auto shop of their choice for an inspection. Make sure you're working with glass companies and auto shops that your insurance provider approves of.

You'll need to save all your receipts for the repairs and/or replacements, as your insurance company needs to know exactly how much to reimburse you. Without the receipts, you could be denied coverage or provided with less than you actually needed.

Here's a quick rundown of the steps to follow:

Remember, if you can't afford your deductible, you may be able to find a private glass company that's willing to waive part of your deductible. They often need the business, so it's worth shopping around.

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If the damage is caused on the other side of the windshield outside the visibility area of the driver, you can get it repaired.

The decision to repair or replace a windshield depends on several factors, including the dimensions and depth of the damage, the impact on visibility, and the threat it poses to the driver's safety. Small chips out of the driver's line of sight can be repaired, but more significant damage will require a total replacement.

A crack smaller than the size of a dollar bill outside of the driver's main line of sight may be able to be fixed quickly without having to replace the entire windshield. However, if the damage is huge and can cause distraction, replacement is the best option.

Here are some situations where replacement is better than repair:

The cost to fix a broken windshield can't be predicted without knowing the severity of the damage. On average, the cost of fixing a windshield occurs between $30 to $100. If the cost of repair is higher than $100, it's better to get the windshield replaced.

Insurance companies vary in their coverage and deductibles for windshield replacement. Some, like Geico, Nationwide, Allstate, American Family, Liberty Mutual, Progressive, and USAA, may waive or reduce deductibles for windshield repairs but not replacements.

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance company will likely pay for windshield replacement or repair services, minus your deductible. However, some states have laws that require insurers to waive the deductible for windshield repairs or replacements.

You can check with your insurance company or review your policy to see what's covered and what's not. Some insurance companies, like Farmers, offer additional coverage options that can lower your comprehensive insurance deductible for glass repair or replacement.

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If you have comprehensive or collision coverage, you'll get coverage for your windshield depending on the type of incident. This type of coverage is usually included in your auto insurance policy.

Some insurance companies require a deductible for windshield repairs, while others don't. For example, Nationwide, Geico, Progressive, Allstate, American Family Mutual, Liberty Mutual, Travelers, and USAA do not require a deductible for windshield claims.

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Insurance companies like Farmers do require a deductible for windshield repairs. State Farm requires a deductible unless state laws or policy details say otherwise.

If you get into an accident and another driver was at fault, their insurance company will pay for the repair or replacement of your windshield.

Here's a list of insurance companies that provide windshield insurance and their deductible requirements:

Farmers requires a deductible for windshield repair, while Nationwide, Geico, Progressive, Allstate, American Family Mutual, Liberty Mutual, Travelers, and USAA do not.

If you live in Florida, Kentucky, or South Carolina, you won't need to pay your deductible for windshield replacement or repairs, regardless of the insurance company.

Some insurance companies, like Geico, Nationwide, and Allstate, offer windshield replacement coverage without requiring a deductible for repairs, but may require one for full replacement.

Here's a list of major insurance companies that waive windshield deductibles under certain conditions:

If you're unsure about your insurance coverage, check your policy details or contact your insurance company to confirm their windshield replacement policies.

If you're wondering whether you can change your insurance to cover a windshield, it's essential to understand the damage and coverage considerations first.

Damage from a car accident is covered by your collision policy, but you'll have to pay your collision deductible. Liability insurance, on the other hand, doesn't cover damage to your vehicle, but another driver's liability coverage will pay for your windshield repair if you're involved in an accident that isn't your fault.

If you intentionally caused the damage, your insurance won't pay to repair or replace your windshield. Driving under the influence is also considered intentional harm, and your insurance won't provide any claim money for the repair or replacement of the windshield.

If you only carry liability insurance, your policy will never cover damage to your vehicle, including to your windshield. However, another driver's liability coverage would pay for your windshield repair if you're involved in an accident that isn't your fault.

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If you have comprehensive or collision coverage, your insurance will cover windshield damage, but you'll have to pay a deductible. Some car insurance companies will waive your deductible if the windshield only needs to be repaired, but you'll usually need to have full auto glass insurance to have your deductible waived for a full windshield replacement.

Here are some common scenarios where windshield damage is covered:

And here are some scenarios where windshield damage is not covered:

If you've suffered windshield damage, the repair and replacement process can be a bit confusing. Your insurance company will need to assess the damage to determine if it's repairable or if a full replacement is necessary.

If the damage is significant and poses a safety risk, your windshield will need to be completely replaced. This is a straightforward process, but it's essential to understand your insurance coverage first.

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will pay for windshield replacement. Comprehensive car insurance can help pay for windshield damage caused by various factors, including tree branches falling, rocks or debris on the roadway, and acts of vandalism.

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You'll need to file a claim with your insurance company to initiate the repair or replacement process. If the damage is minor and only requires repair, your insurance company may waive your comprehensive deductible.

Here are some key points to keep in mind as you navigate the repair and replacement process:

If you're looking to save on deductible payments for your windshield, there are a few options to consider.

Some insurers will waive your deductible if your windshield needs minimal repair rather than replacement. This can be a big cost-saver, especially if the damage is minor.

Some insurers offer an additional coverage option that lowers your comprehensive insurance deductible if you file a claim for glass repair or replacement only. For instance, Farmers offers glass deductible buy back coverage that makes your deductible $100 for glass repair or replacement.

Insurance companies in some states offer full glass coverage which is not subject to a deductible. These states include Arizona and Massachusetts, where insurance companies have the option of offering a $0 comprehensive insurance deductible for glass repair and replacement.

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If you live in a state where there is no law mandating insurance companies to waive your comprehensive deductible for glass claims, your insurance company may still waive or reduce your deductible.

Here are some major insurance companies that waive windshield deductibles in certain situations:

If your windshield is damaged in a collision caused by another driver, his or her liability insurance typically covers the repair or replacement of your windshield.

Windshield insurance often covers damage from debris, vandalism, and natural disasters like hail or flood.

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance may cover damage from a variety of sources, including falling objects and fire.

To learn more about windshield insurance and how it works, check out WalletHub's guide to windshield insurance.

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