A Guide to Car Insurance and Windshield Repairs
Car windshields can take a lot of punishment, and shatterproof glass means that most damage won’t break it outright.
Windshield damage can happen anytime and is even more hazardous if left untreated. Cracks can spread and severely impact visibility. Knowing how to organize repairs and handle an insurance claim is important when disaster strikes.
Here is a guide to windshield repairs and car insurance:
Damages
Car windshields can take a lot of punishment, and shatterproof glass means that most damage won’t break it outright. Still, visibility and safety are greatly at risk with untreated damage.
Chips are the smallest damage and can occur from small debris bouncing off a windshield at high velocity. While they aren’t serious, the weakness in the glass will slowly spread, becoming cracks.
Bigger impacts can leave star or bullseye-shaped marks on a windshield, often denting or completely piercing the surface. In these cases, it’s important to replace the windshield immediately.
Covering a damaged windshield
Windshields are generally covered under comprehensive insurance plans. Depending on the state, the definition of “comprehensive” may differ. Therefore, always be sure to check just what the insurance policy covers:
Comprehensive cover: This policy insures a vehicle against all damages outside of a collision. Any theft, vandalism, and even a stray rock on a road should be covered.
Collision cover: This insurance will pay for damages if one collides with another driver or an object. Depending on the insurance company, this may extend to windshield replacement.
Glass cover: Some companies offer dedicated insurance to protect the windshield or all windows. What’s more, this option may be deductible-free.
Liability cover: If another driver collides with the insured, their liability insurance should cover windshield repair costs.
Even if the windshield is repairable under insurance, the company may charge a deductible for getting the job done. It is crucial to weigh the benefits. If the deductible exceeds the costs, it won’t be worth the effort, and paying out of pocket is better.
Unless explicitly stated, insurance companies should cover costs for windshield damage outside the state.
Reporting the damage
Here are the steps to report damage from an accident:
Stop the vehicle in a safe area and assess the internal and external damage.
Review or recall the insurance policy and coverage.
Contact the insurance company. Sometimes, a third party (like a professional windshield repair service) will suffice.
Provide the relevant documents and evidence of damage. This can include photographs, statements, and police reports.
Have the windshield repaired or replaced.
The insurance company will then pay for the service. One may have to pay a deductible depending on the coverage and damage.
Repairing the damage
Hiring a trusted and professional windshield repair service is vital when repairing or replacing a damaged windshield.
In some cases, the repair services will also contact the insurance company on your behalf and supply all the necessary information and documentation.
Lucid Auto Glass provides mobile windshield repair and replacement in Tacoma, Olympia, Renton, Lakewood, and surrounding areas. Our auto glass services include windshield replacement, rock chip repair, crack repair, and leak repair as well as door window regulator and door window motor repair and replacement. Family owned and operated. Military discounts available.
