A cracked or shattered windshield is more than just a minor inconvenience—it’s a safety hazard that can compromise your visibility and the structural integrity of your vehicle. If you’re facing windshield damage, you may be wondering: Does my insurance cover windshield replacement?
The good news is that many auto insurance policies do offer coverage for windshield repairs and replacements. However, coverage depends on your specific policy, deductibles, and state regulations.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about insurance coverage for windshield replacement, including what types of policies cover it, how to file a claim, and ways to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
🚗 Types of Auto Insurance That Cover Windshield Replacement
🔹 Comprehensive Coverage (Usually Covers Windshield Replacement)
Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision damage, including rock chips, hail, vandalism, and falling objects. If your windshield is damaged due to a covered event, your insurance may pay for repairs or full replacement.
🔹 Collision Coverage (Covers Accidents Only)
If your windshield is damaged in a car accident, collision insurance may cover the replacement, but only if you were at fault. If another driver caused the damage, their liability insurance should cover it instead.
🔹 Full Glass Coverage (No Deductible in Some States)
Some insurers offer full glass coverage as an add-on to comprehensive insurance. This waives the deductible for windshield repairs or replacements, meaning you won’t pay anything out of pocket.
🔹 Liability Insurance (Does NOT Cover Your Windshield)
Basic liability insurance only covers damage you cause to others, so it won’t cover your own windshield replacement.
💰 Do You Have to Pay a Deductible for Windshield Replacement?
Your deductible is the amount you must pay before insurance kicks in. Here’s how it works:
✅ If your policy includes full glass coverage, you may get a windshield replacement with no deductible.
✅ If you only have comprehensive coverage, you’ll need to pay your deductible before insurance covers the rest.
✅ If your deductible is higher than the replacement cost, you may have to pay out of pocket.
States with No-Deductible Windshield Replacement
Some states have “zero deductible” windshield replacement laws, meaning insurance must fully cover windshield repairs or replacements if you have comprehensive coverage. These states include:
✅ Florida
✅ Kentucky
✅ South Carolina
📄 How to File an Insurance Claim for Windshield Replacement
🔹 Step 1: Contact Your Insurance Provider
Call your insurance company to check if your policy covers windshield repair or replacement.
🔹 Step 2: Get an Estimate
Visit a trusted auto glass repair shop, like Cyclone Collision Center, to assess the damage and get an estimate.
🔹 Step 3: Choose a Repair or Replacement
If the damage is smaller than a quarter, many insurers cover chip repairs instead of a full replacement.
🔹 Step 4: Pay Any Deductible (If Applicable)
If your policy requires a deductible, pay it before your insurer covers the remaining cost.
🔹 Step 5: Get Your Windshield Repaired or Replaced
Your insurance company may work directly with an auto glass shop or reimburse you for the service.
🔎 When Should You Replace vs. Repair Your Windshield?
✅ Repair If:
The chip or crack is smaller than a quarter.
The damage is not in the driver’s line of sight.
The crack does not extend to the windshield’s edge.
🚨 Replace If:
The crack is longer than six inches.
The damage impairs visibility.
The windshield has multiple cracks or severe damage.
🚗 Cyclone Collision Center: Brooklyn’s Trusted Auto Glass Experts
For over 40 years, Cyclone Collision Center has provided top-quality auto glass repair and windshield replacement services in Brooklyn, NY.
✅ Insurance-Friendly Windshield Replacement
✅ Fast & Reliable Auto Glass Repairs
✅ OEM-Quality Glass for Maximum Safety
✅ Certified Technicians & Hassle-Free Service
📍 Need a windshield repair or replacement? Contact Cyclone Collision Center today! 🚗💨
📍 Protect your vehicle’s safety—schedule an auto glass inspection today!
Final Thoughts
Windshield replacement coverage depends on your insurance policy and state laws. If you have comprehensive or full glass coverage, your repair or replacement may be fully covered. To avoid out-of-pocket costs, check your deductible and file a claim with a trusted auto glass repair shop.
Have windshield damage? Call Cyclone Collision Center today for expert auto glass services!