Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Damage? How to File a Claim

Key Highlights

• Comprehensive car insurance often covers windshield damage from falling objects or hail.
• Collision coverage will help if your windshield is damaged in a car accident.
• Sometimes, you may not need to file a claim. This can happen if the damage is minor and the repair cost is less than your deductible.
• When you file a claim, you must show your insurance policy information and photos of the damage.
• It is typically a good idea to fix your windshield quickly. Small chips can turn into larger and costlier issues.

Introduction

Finding a crack or chip in your windshield can be frustrating. You might wonder if your car insurance can help pay for the repair or replacement. Understanding how your car insurance covers windshield damage can save you time and money. This article explores different situations where your insurance may cover windshield damage and provides a step-by-step guide to filing a claim.

Understanding Windshield Damage Coverage

When your windshield is damaged, your auto insurance determines what costs are covered. The specific details depend on your insurance provider. If the damage is not from a crash, you will need comprehensive coverage. This type of coverage helps pay for damage caused by hail, falling objects, or vandalism.

Liability insurance is useful when another driver causes an accident that damages your windshield. Their insurance will cover the repairs. However, if your windshield is cracked for other reasons, liability insurance usually will not help. In those cases, you will need comprehensive coverage.

The Role of Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance helps you deal with unexpected damage to your car, including windshield damage. Events like hailstorms, falling tree branches, or a baseball hitting your windshield are typically covered under comprehensive insurance.

If you need to replace your windshield due to a covered event, you must pay your comprehensive deductible first. The deductible amount varies depending on your policy, so reviewing your coverage details is essential.

Some insurance companies offer lower deductibles for windshield repair or replacement. This option can be helpful if you want to reduce out-of-pocket costs for common issues like windshield damage.

When Liability and Collision Insurance Come into Play

Comprehensive insurance covers damage that occurs without a crash, while collision coverage is necessary when your car is involved in an accident. If your windshield breaks due to a collision, collision coverage will likely pay for the repairs.

If another driver crashes into your car and is at fault, their liability insurance will cover the cost to fix your windshield. It is important to collect as much information as possible at the accident scene, including the other driver’s insurance details.

If you cause a car crash, your liability insurance will cover the damage to the other driver’s car but not your own. To repair your vehicle, including the windshield, you will need collision coverage.

Preparing to File a Windshield Damage Claim

Before filing a claim for windshield damage, gather key information, such as your insurance policy details, the date and location of the incident, and any photos or videos showing the damage. This preparation can help streamline the claim process.

Consider your deductible and compare it to the repair or replacement cost. If the repair cost is lower than your deductible, paying for it yourself may be more cost-effective. However, if the damage is severe and exceeds your deductible, filing a claim can help reduce your financial burden.

Gathering Necessary Documentation

Before contacting your insurance provider, gather the necessary documents for your claim:

• Insurance policy information: Have your policy number ready and review details about your coverage limits and deductibles.
• Documentation of the damage: Take clear pictures of the windshield damage, preferably with a ruler or another object to show the size. Keep any documents from law enforcement or a repair shop.
• Incident details: Record the date, time, and location of the incident, along with a brief explanation of what happened.

Knowing Your Policy Deductible

Your car insurance deductible is the amount you must pay before your insurance covers costs. The deductible amount varies based on your policy and provider. Understanding your deductible is crucial when filing a claim for windshield damage.

If your windshield repair or replacement costs less than your deductible, it may be more practical to pay for it yourself. However, if the damage is severe and costs more than your deductible, filing a claim can help minimize your expenses.

Review your policy or contact your insurance company to confirm your deductible and coverage details.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Claim

After assessing the damage and gathering the necessary documents, you can begin the claim process. Most insurance companies allow you to file a claim online, through their app, or by speaking with a representative.

Step 1: Assess the Extent of Damage

Check how bad the damage is on your windshield. A small chip can usually be repaired, while a large crack often requires a full replacement.

• Repairable damage: Small chips under one inch wide, cracks shorter than three inches, and star-shaped cracks under one inch can often be fixed.
• Replacement required: Cracks longer than six inches, any damage in the driver’s line of sight, or complex cracks typically need a full windshield replacement.

If you are uncertain, consult a professional glass repair shop. They can provide an estimate and recommend whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Provider

Inform your insurer about the damage and start the claims process. Most insurance companies allow claims to be filed online or through a mobile app, making it easy to submit details and photos.

Some insurers may require you to speak with a representative to discuss your coverage or claim process. Be prepared to provide your policy number, the date and location of the incident, and a summary of the damage.

Your insurer will guide you through the next steps, including scheduling an appointment with an authorized repair shop.

Step 3: Choose an Authorized Repair Service

Many insurance companies provide a list of preferred repair services. Using an approved repair shop offers several benefits:

• Simplified process: Preferred shops understand your insurer’s claims process, making it easier for you.
• Quality assurance: These shops often guarantee their repairs.
• Possible deductible waiver: Depending on your policy, you may not have to pay a deductible or could receive other benefits.

You are not required to use an approved repair shop. Choosing an independent repair shop may provide more scheduling flexibility and potential cost savings.

Conclusion

Understanding how car insurance covers windshield damage is essential for making informed decisions. Comprehensive insurance often covers windshield repairs, helping you stay safe on the road. Gathering the necessary documents and contacting your insurer promptly can make the claims process smoother. By following these steps, you can efficiently handle windshield damage claims and get back on the road safely. Stay informed about your coverage to maximize your insurance benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is windshield repair covered under all insurance policies?

Windshield repair and replacement usually fall under comprehensive or collision coverage, depending on the cause of the damage. If you only have the minimum required auto insurance, it likely will not cover these services.

How long does it take to replace a windshield?

A full windshield replacement typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, plus time for the adhesive to set. If your vehicle has advanced driver-assistance systems, recalibration may extend the process.

Will filing a windshield damage claim raise my premiums?

It depends on your insurance company and policy. Some insurers do not count glass repair claims toward premium increases. However, frequent claims, including for windshield damage, may lead to higher rates.

Are there any states where windshield replacement is free?

Some states, such as Kentucky, require insurers to offer full glass coverage with no deductible for windshield replacement. Check your policy for specific terms.

Can I choose where to repair or replace my windshield?

You can usually select your repair shop. However, insurers may have preferred providers that offer benefits such as waived deductibles or guaranteed work. Consult your insurer for options.

Written by FangWallet Editors Updated March 12, 2025 by Albert Fang