Is a cracked windshield comprehensive or collision?

Asked by: Ismael Kshlerin MD  |  Last update: June 23, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (47 votes)

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.

Does Comprehensive cover a cracked 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.

Does your insurance go up if a rock hits your windshield?

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.

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.

Does insurance cover a cracked windscreen?

If you have fully comprehensive cover in place, it's likely that any damage sustained to your windscreen will be covered.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Windshield Repair or Replacement?

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Should I file insurance claim for cracked windshield?

If your windshield gets chipped or cracked, you should file a comprehensive claim as soon as you can and before you proceed with repairs. Important note: You shouldn't wait too long after the damage occurs to file a glass claim, and the claim should be filed before any repairs take place.

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.

Who pays for broken windshield?

Cracked or chipped windshields fall under comprehensive insurance in the US. Comprehensive insurance pays for damage to your car caused by something other than a collision, regardless of fault, such as windshield damage from road debris or something falling from the sky.

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.

What to do if small rock hits windshield?

Seek Professional Help
  1. Immediate Attention. Consider seeking professional repair for windshield cracks immediately if they obstruct the driver's view, extend to the edges of the windscreen, or are expanding rapidly.
  2. Small Damage. Even tiny chips and cracks shall be repaired immediately to stop them from getting enlarged.

Will a comprehensive claim raise insurance?

Yes, a comprehensive claim might increase your rate, depending on your insurer and state. Comprehensive claims include non-collision events like car theft, car vandalism, car fire, chipped/cracked windshield, hitting an animal, and acts of nature.

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 do I know if I have comprehensive coverage?

The overview section of your policy's declarations page may also list all of your coverages. If you see both collision coverage and comprehensive coverage (sometimes referred as "other than collision" coverage) listed under your vehicle, then you're covered for physical damage.

How much does it cost to fix a cracked windshield 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. In the case of specialty cars, the cost of windshield replacement can even exceed $2000.

Do dealerships cover cracked windshields?

A car dealership has the capabilities to replace damaged windshields and windows. For the replacements, they will exclusively use OEM glass that is ordered directly from the vehicle manufacturer.

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 big of a crack can Safelite fix?

Safelite can usually repair your windshield if the damage meets these conditions: The damage is under 6 inches in length* The point of impact is smaller than a dime. There are no more than 3 chips.

Can you sue if a rock hits your windshield?

If you or a loved one has been in a car accident involving debris in California, you should discuss your legal options with an attorney as you may be entitled to compensation. The California car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates can then help determine if you have an auto accident claim.

Can I claim a cracked windshield on insurance?

Comprehensive Coverage

The key to ensuring that you have coverage for a cracked windshield is having comprehensive insurance. The vast majority of cases will be covered under your comprehensive policy, but you have to have a comprehensive policy in the first place.

How much is a deductible for a cracked windshield?

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 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.

How many times will insurance cover windshield?

Some insurers may allow multiple windshield replacements per year without significant impact on your rates, while others might only cover one replacement annually. Deductibles for glass claims can vary, and some policies may offer zero-deductible glass coverage.

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 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.

How much does it cost to fix a cracked windshield?

Depending on the state you live in and what your insurance policy covers, the cost to repair your cracked windshield can range from $80-$150. The smaller the damage, the cheaper it usually is to repair, but larger cracks or chips may require a full replacement.