Does Insurance Cover a Broken Windshield

By: Nocole Tomassetti

How to File an Auto Glass Insurance Claim

Regardless of how careful a driver you are, windshield chips are often unavoidable. Use the following guide to help you determine whether the damage requires repair or full replacement, then file an auto glass insurance claim with your provider.

Determine whether to repair or replace your windshield

The first step is to establish whether your windshield needs repairing or replacement. While a specialist should make the final call, a good rule of thumb is to replace a windshield if the chip or crack measures six inches or more. If the crack is less than six inches, a professional repair should take care of the damage. However, exposure to different elements such as cold and warm weather or hitting a pothole can cause an unrepaired crack to spread quickly. Filing an auto insurance glass claim with your insurance company and immediately scheduling a repair or replacement can greatly reduce the risk of a small blemish becoming a big problem.

File an auto glass insurance claim

Filing a windshield replacement insurance claim or other glass breakage claim is easier than you may think. Most glass breakage and windshield replacement insurance claims are covered under comprehensive car insurance coverage and are considered "no-fault" so your premium shouldn't increase. If you carry this coverage, your deductible for the glass repair or replacement may be waived.

Many insurance companies offer you the choice of filing your auto glass insurance claim online or by phone. You should have the following information on hand:

- Policy number

- Vehicle make, model and year

- Date the incident occurred

- Details pertaining to the incident

Also, you will need to determine a date, time and location for the glass repair or replacement. Shops recommended by your insurer will often guarantee their work. Many of these shops can come directly to you at a location and time you choose, such as your employer's parking lot during your lunch break. Expect repairs to take approximately 30 minutes and replacements, roughly one hour.

Remember, if you spot a chip or crack in your front or back windshield or side windows, be sure to contact your insurance company right away to file a claim and schedule a repair or replacement. If you do not carry comprehensive car insurance coverage, compare insurance companies to find one that will waive the deductible on auto glass insurance coverage - making your glass service more affordable.