Does comprehensive insurance cover windshields?

Asked by: Antwon Rolfson  |  Last update: July 19, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (56 votes)

Comprehensive coverage may help pay to replace or repair a damaged windshield if it's hit by a rock or another object. Comprehensive also helps cover damage from perils such as fire, theft, falling objects or hail.

What does comprehensive insurance not cover?

Comprehensive coverage does not cover damages caused by hitting another vehicle or object. These incidents are covered under collision coverage. It will also not cover normal wear and tear on your vehicle.

Who is responsible if a rock hits your windshield?

When a rock from the vehicle in front of you hits your windshield, the first question on your mind might be, “Who's responsible for this?” Unfortunately, in most cases, the answer is you.

How to get your windshield replaced for free?

The "free" part kicks in when you file a covered windshield claim and the deductible is waived, which results in your insurance company paying the cost of the replacement pursuant to the terms and conditions of the applicable policy.

Does a windshield repair count as an insurance claim?

In most cases, you can't file an insurance claim for auto glass repair or replacement if you don't have comprehensive coverage. But there are two exceptions to that general rule. If either of the following situations applies to you, insurance can pay to repair your windows: Someone crashes into your vehicle.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Windshield Repair or Replacement?

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Does comprehensive insurance cover windshield replacement?

Comprehensive coverage may help pay to replace or repair a damaged windshield if it's hit by a rock or another object. Comprehensive also helps cover damage from perils such as fire, theft, falling objects or hail.

How do I know if windshield damage is covered by insurance?

Windshield repairs and replacement would typically be covered under the comprehensive coverage portion of your policy. Auto glass damage such as windshield repair, replacement and vandalism claims would fall under this category of insurance depending on what type of policy purchased and State guidelines.

Is it cheaper to replace windshield without insurance?

If you're getting an aftermarket windshield for an average older vehicle with little to no technology add-ons, you can expect to pay at least $300 to $600 when not using insurance. A luxury model typically costs more.

Does Safelite waive deductible?

When a Safelite Solutions shop can repair your windshield damage instead of replacing the glass, we waive your deductible, making the repair free to you. If the glass is replaced, you will be responsible only for your deductible for the covered work.

Is a pitted windshield covered by insurance?

Pitting normally falls under the "wear-and-tear" exclusion on a personal auto policy in the US. There's no real distinction in an auto insurance policy between "wear-and-tear" and "damage", so it's subjective, but it's safe to say if you took this to court a judge would side with the insurer on that one.

Do I have to pay a deductible if a rock hits your windshield?

Windshield replacement and glass damage are covered under comprehensive insurance, so you will need to pay your deductible before your insurance will start paying.

How much does it cost to repair a rock hit windshield?

Costs for windshield repairs vary by location, auto glass service provider and damage type. Typical prices range from $60 to $100 for a single chip, and discounts may apply when fixing additional chips on the same windshield. Crack repair prices are similar, although fixing a longer crack may cost $125 or more.

Does reporting a cracked windshield affect insurance?

Insurance companies generally raise rates after windshield repair claims in order to recoup the cost of the claim. However, it's worth noting that insurance companies in California and Oklahoma are not allowed to raise premiums for a not-at-fault claim.

Is it better to have a $500 deductible or $1000?

Remember that filing small claims may affect how much you have to pay for insurance later. Switching from a $500 deductible to a $1,000 deductible can save as much as 20 percent on the cost of your insurance premium payments.

What does fully comprehensive cover?

What is comprehensive car insurance? In a nutshell, comprehensive car insurance cover – sometimes known as fully comprehensive cover, pays out if you damage your car, someone else's car or injure someone in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Comprehensive car insurance also covers you against fire and theft.

How much will a comprehensive claim raise my insurance?

By State. You can expect the most elevated car insurance rates post-accident in California, where the average increase is more than 74 percent. Increases are less than 25 percent in Rhode Island, in contrast.

Can I claim windshield on insurance?

When does insurance cover windshield replacement? In most cases, you need to carry comprehensive coverage for your car insurance policy to cover a cracked or broken windshield and other types of glass damage, but collision coverage often applies in an accident with another vehicle.

What is the average deductible for windshield replacement?

Although deductibles vary between policies, most range between $50 to $2,000. Depending on the extent of your damage, windshield repairs or a full replacement usually cost between $100 and $400.

Does Safelite go through your insurance?

We partner with hundreds of insurance companies and will even verify your coverage and file your claim so you can stress less.

How can I save money on a windshield replacement?

8 Ways to Lower Your Windshield Replacement Bill
  1. Work with Your Insurance Company. ...
  2. Get Your Auto Glass Repaired ASAP. ...
  3. Look for Complimentary Mobile Services. ...
  4. Shop for Quotes. ...
  5. Search for Shops that Offer Warranties. ...
  6. Avoid Aftermarket Parts. ...
  7. Avoid DIY Repair Kits. ...
  8. Practice Safe Prevention.

What does $500 deductible with full glass mean?

For instance, if you're considering full glass coverage with a $500 deductible and an additional cost of $5-$10 per month on your premiums, it means that before your insurer covers any repair or replacements due to glass damages on your vehicle's windshield, sunroof, or even side windows during an accident or other ...

What does comprehensive mean in car insurance?

Comprehensive coverage helps repair or replace your car after something other than a collision with another car. Things like theft, fire, hail damage or hitting an animal. It's optional if you own your car outright—but since these situations can happen to any driver, it's recommended to help with costly repairs.

How much does it cost to replace a windshield without insurance?

So how does a windshield replacement without insurance cost? Typically, the cost of a windshield replacement is between $100-$400 (including labor) with the average cost ranging between $210-$230. Collectible and luxury vehicles can cost significantly more, as much as $1,500.

What states have free windshield replacement?

Yes, there are three specific states in the United States with free windshield replacement laws on the books, Florida, South Carolina, and Kentucky. Here's how their laws work.

Who is liable for cracked windshield?

However, the driver should be held responsible if you were following the vehicle at a reasonable distance and a rock fell from it and struck your windshield. If this is the case, you can sue the driver for damages.