Does full coverage insurance cover windshields?

Asked by: Giles Hackett  |  Last update: April 25, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (25 votes)

Comprehensive coverage on a car insurance policy may help pay to repair or replace your windshield if it's cracked or shattered by a rock. Another coverage, called full glass coverage, may also be available to help protect you against the cost of fixing or replacing a windshield.

Does full coverage cover a windshield?

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.

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.

Who is liable for a 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.

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43 related questions found

Who pays when a rock hits your windshield?

Comprehensive Coverage: If you have comprehensive auto insurance, you're in luck. This type of coverage typically includes glass damage, meaning your insurer will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield, minus your deductible.

Is it worth filing a claim for a cracked windshield?

If your windshield is damaged one of the first questions you'll ask yourself is, “Should I use insurance to replace my damaged windshield?” Since most comprehensive auto policies do cover auto glass damage—including the cost of windshield replacement—for most people the answer to this question is “Yes!” However, ...

Does car insurance go up after windshield claim?

Any time you file an auto insurance claim – even for auto glass repair or replacement – your insurance provider has the option of increasing your rate. While a single claim may not generate a rate spike, several may. Generally, the more claims you file, the greater your chances of incurring a higher monthly bill.

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 ...

How much is a windshield replacement without insurance?

Average Cost of Windshield Replacement Without Insurance

On average, the cost of windshield replacement for a standard non–ADAS equipped vehicle is typically between $210 to $500. When it comes to ADAS-equipped vehicles, the price can be higher, reaching up to $1500.

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.

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.

Is a cracked windshield covered by warranty?

For the most part, an auto warranty will not cover a cracked or damaged windshield. There are, of course, certain circumstances that are an exception. For example, this might be covered if the windshield was not manufactured correctly and cracked due to regular, everyday use.

Does full coverage cover 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.

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.

How much is full coverage deductible?

$500 is the most common car insurance deductible. Not every type of car insurance coverage uses a deductible. A higher car deductible can lower your insurance premium. You pick your deductible when buying insurance.

How long does a windshield claim stay on your insurance?

Insurance carriers usually keep claim records for five years. When you apply with a new insurance company, they will receive a C.L.U.E. (Combined Loss Underwriting Exchange) report that shows your claims from the past five years. Even towing and windshield replacement claims can show up in a C.L.U.E. report.

Why are windshields so expensive?

Replacing windshields on newer cars is more complex. The ADAS technology that connects to the windshield can substantially increase the repair cost due to things like the recalibration of sensors and more. This also applies to electric cars, which also utilize driver-assist technologies.

Do I call insurance for a cracked windshield?

Take your car to the mechanic as soon as you notice a crack in the windshield to determine whether it can be repaired or needs a replacement. In any case, it's a good idea to call your insurance provider as soon as possible to check if your policy would cover the repair costs.

How much does Safelite charge to come to you?

We'll come to you for free

Wherever. Our auto glass experts will get you back on the road. Some vehicles may not be eligible for mobile service.

How urgent is a cracked windshield?

If rain or moisture infiltrates chipped glass, the crack can spread quickly. At that point, repairs may be more expensive – and more importantly it's dangerous. That's why in some states, it's illegal to drive around with a cracked windshield. If you have a chipped window, bring it into the shop immediately.

Does full coverage cover a rock hitting windshield?

Comprehensive coverage on a car insurance policy may help pay to repair or replace your windshield if it's cracked or shattered by a rock. Another coverage, called full glass coverage, may also be available to help protect you against the cost of fixing or replacing a windshield.

How much does a windshield claim cost?

How much does windshield replacement cost? Without windshield coverage, the cost to replace a basic windshield could be around $300 to $600. The actual cost will vary depending on the vehicle.

Can a 12 inch crack in a windshield be repaired?

Takeaway. In theory, a 12-inch crack in a windshield can be repaired.