Yes, in most cases, a windshield replacement or glass repair will be covered by car insurance if you have comprehensive coverage.
Comprehensive coverage is an optional insurance coverage that pays for damage to your vehicle, not related to a collision.
Comprehensive coverage and windshield replacement
Windshield replacement and glass damage are covered under comprehensive insurance, so you will need to pay your deductible before your insurance will start paying. A deductible is your share of the cost for a claim. A deductible is not the same as your premium, which is what you pay to maintain your policy.
For example, say your comprehensive deductible is $500, and your windshield replacement would cost $700. In this case, you would pay $500 and your insurance will cover the remaining cost.
How much does windshield replacement cost with insurance?
Since windshield and glass damage are some of the most common comprehensive claims made, many insurance companies offer separate windshield deductibles.
At Plymouth Rock you can select a $0 windshield deductible, which means you won’t have to pay to replace a windshield in a covered loss. Plymouth Rock also offers a $100 Glass Deductible option, which applies a $100 deductible for glass-only claims.
Does full coverage auto insurance cover windshield replacement?
If you have full coverage insurance it should cover windshield replacement as full coverage includes comprehensive coverage. Having full coverage auto insurance means that you have both comprehensive and collision coverage.
Does car insurance pay for a cracked windshield?
Car insurance should pay to replace a cracked windshield, if you have comprehensive coverage. Chips and cracks are one of the most common reasons to get your vehicle’s windshield replaced.
If you end up with a small chip on your windshield, get it repaired as soon as possible. It’s easier and cheaper to fix a small chip before it becomes a large crack that requires a full replacement. Inspect your windshield periodically to stay on top of its condition.
Other common windshield replacement situations
- Hail damage
- Falling objects
- Hitting an animal
- Vandalism
- Theft-related damage
Most situations that call for a windshield replacement would fall under comprehensive, but there are cases where collision coverage will apply. Collision coverage pays for physical damage to your car from hitting another car or a stationary object. If your windshield glass was damaged because of a collision, your collision coverage may apply.
When are windshield replacements not covered?
The most common situation for a windshield replacement not being covered is if you don’t carry the right coverage. Your insurance will not cover a windshield replacement if you don’t already have coverage, whether that’s comprehensive or collision.
Your insurance will not cover pre-existing damage. For example, if you bought a used car with cracked glass your new insurance policy will not cover a replacement.
If the cost to replace your windshield is lower than your comprehensive deductible, your insurance may not cover it. This could be the case if you don’t carry a separate glass deductible and your comprehensive deductible is high.
For example, if your comprehensive deductible is $1,000 and it costs $700 to replace your windshield, your insurance will not pay it since the cost to replace is below your deductible amount.
Filing a claim for windshield replacement
We know that filing any kind of car insurance claim can be stressful. Plymouth Rock’s unique claims services will simplify the process, getting you back on the road in no time.
- File your claim — please have your policy number ready. You can file a claim online or by contacting us or your agent directly.
- Assignment and tracking of the claim — after you report your car insurance claim, you’ll receive a claim number to help track its progress. We’ll also assign you a friendly representative to answer any questions you may have.
- Damage evaluation — if your vehicle has damage and the applicable coverage applies, we offer these convenient options to get you back on the road as soon as possible:
- CarPics® Photo Appraisals: Eliminate the need to schedule a claims inspection and receive your estimate within hours. You may even get paid that same day.*
- Crashbusters® Mobile Claim Service: Have a representative meet you to appraise the damage at a time and place that’s convenient for you, often issuing you a check on the spot.
- Door to Door Valet Claim Service®: Let us pick up your car and handle the repair process from start to finish. If you have rental coverage, we’ll even coordinate a rental car.
- Receive your claim settlement — based on your situation, Plymouth Rock may pay your claim to the repair shop or we may reimburse you directly. Your claim payment will be based on the terms and coverage in your car insurance policy.
Does filing a windshield claim affect my insurance premium?
Auto insurance companies handle increases in premiums differently, talk to your provider for more details.
If you choose a different deductible for glass-only claims, you may see an increase to your insurance premium. Plymouth Rock offers a waiver of deductible for glass repairs for Assurance Plus customers at no extra cost. This means you will have no deductible for the repair of simple glass breaks, chips, nicks and cracks resulting from a covered loss.
Preventative measures to protect your windshield
Taking some preventative measures can help reduce the risk of windshield damage and prolong its lifespan. Here are some easy ways to help protect your windshield.
Don’t follow other vehicles too closely.
Rocks, gravel and other road debris can be kicked up by other cars on the road. Large trucks tend to kick up more debris. Give construction vehicles more space, as objects can fall off them and cause damage. Leave plenty of following distance when you’re driving.
Avoid driving on gravel or rough, unpaved roads if possible.
Be smart about where you park.
Avoid parking under trees, as branches, fruit or acorns may fall on your car and damage it. If possible, park in a garage.
Keep your windshield wipers in good condition.
Worn out wiper blades not only reduce visibility, but they also may scratch your windshield and weaken it over time. If you notice your wipers are losing effectiveness, it’s time to replace them.
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Windshield and glass repair FAQs
The cost to replace a windshield depends on your vehicle. Some cars require specialty glass or have sensors that need to be calibrated after a windshield replacement, which can be more expensive.
You should not drive with a cracked windshield. Not only is it dangerous, it’s illegal in most states. Repair or replace your windshield at the first sign of damage.
If your windshield suffers even a small chip or a crack, repair or replace it immediately. Small cracks can quickly spread and become huge problems.
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This page is for informational purposes only. Actual coverage may vary and is subject to the policy issued by your insurer. Restrictions and limitations may apply. Review your policy and consult a licensed insurance professional to learn more about your coverage.