Accidents or damage to a vehicle's windshield happen from time to time, and when that happens, it is essential to be aware and know the information of your car insurance to see how it can be paid for. Windshield claims, which fall under the area of comprehensive auto insurance, deals with damage to the windshield in the form of chips, cracks, or severely damaged windshields. If the driver carries comprehensive insurance (liability coverage only covers the cost of other vehicles/persons), the person is able to file a claim to entirely cover or partially cover the cost of a repair or replacement. This has to do with the deductible, and varies from policy to policy, and from state to state.
Before a claim is filed, however, it is important to consider a couple of things. First, you should identify what your insurance deductible is, and second, an auto glass quote should be obtained to see how much the cost of the repair is. These things need to consider in that the number of claims can sometimes elevate the customer's premium. Here is an example: Let's say that your auto glass deductible is $300, and after you obtain an auto glass quote to fix your windshield the total was $330. It is here that you will have to decide that filing a claim, in which the insurance company would pay $30, is worth having a claim on your auto insurance history.
It is very important, as well, to be proactive in regard to your auto glass, for in a majority of cases the insurance companies will pay for the entire fix of a chip or crack to the windshield, which saves on having to do a full windshield replacement. This is something to check with your insurance agent, as it can save a lot of money in your pocketbook.
If you decide to file a claim it is best to file as soon as possible. Once the claim is filed it is then advised to check with your insurance agent, who will educate you on your policy, your deductible, and will give you a network of auto glass companies that can be used under your car insurance policy. The auto glass company is then contacted, and many provide customer service that includes all the dealings and paperwork with the insurance company, for the convenience of the customer.
Your vehicle's windshield will be repaired or replaced, the insurance will be taken care of, and you'll be able to quickly get back on the road.
