Does Insurance Cover a Cracked Windshield?

Debris, hail, temperature changes and car accidents can all cause chips, cracks and other damage to a vehicles windshield. While a cracked windshield is not likely to shatter and cause injury, the damage can get worse — blocking your vision, interfering with safety features like lane assist or windshield wipers, and leaving you more vulnerable if you ever were to get into an accident. Not to mention, in most cases, it’s illegal to drive with a damaged windshield.

Whether a small chip or a cracked windshield on your commercial vehicle, it’s important to handle glass repair quickly.

How to Know When to Repair or Replace Your Cracked Windshield

Windshield crack repair is often faster and less expensive than replacement. To know if you can get by with a windshield repair, take a look at the damage and evaluate:

• Size
• Depth
• Location
• Type of crack

Generally speaking, small cracks and chips that do not reach the other side of the glass can be repaired. However, every crack is different, and every state has its own regulations about repair and replacement. If you’re uncertain, it's always best to talk to a windshield repair specialist.

Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement?

Comprehensive Insurance — The typical method of covering glass losses is by purchasing comprehensive coverage with glass coverage. When damage is caused by something other than a collision, like a rock hitting your windshield, a comprehensive commercial auto policy could kick in to cover the cost of repairs. Speak to your insurance agent about obtaining glass coverage because coverage can vary by state.

Do You Pay a Deductible for Auto Glass Repair?

A deductible is the amount that you pay to cover damages before the insurance company steps in. Deductibles are one of the customizable factors in most insurance plans and can be found listed in your auto policy terms.

For example: if your vehicle requires $1,200 worth of repairs and your deductible is $500, you pay $500 out-of-pocket and the insurance carrier pays the remaining $700.

Many states offer “Full Glass” coverage, which means that there are no out-of-pocket costs for windshield crack repair or replacement. Your insurance agent will let you know if you are in a state that qualifies for this benefit. For even more convenience, in most locations the windshield replacement technician comes to you instead of you having to take time to bring your commercial vehicle into a shop — it’s a win-win!

The total price of your auto glass replacement will depend on many factors like:

• The make and model of your commercial vehicle
• Any customizations like tint, digital displays, or automatic wipers
• The availability of the glass needed to replace your windshield

If the cost of replacing a windshield is more than the amount of your deductible, your insurance agent might recommend you make a claim and pay the deductible.

How to Get Car Insurance Coverage for Windshield Damage

If you don’t currently have auto glass coverage on your commercial auto insurance policy, an independent agent can help you find the right coverage for your business needs.

Contact an Agent to Get a Quote for Auto Insurance

Learn more about how Main Street America commercial auto insurance can help protect your business and save you from unexpected out-of-pocked costs. Find an agent to answer all your questions and get the coverage that is right for you.

*Originally published on March 25, 2022