As an insurance expert, I have encountered numerous drivers who are confused about their coverage for glass damage. It is a common misconception that glass coverage always comes with a deductible. However, the reality is that it varies depending on your specific policy and the state you reside in. In this article, I will break down everything you need to know about glass coverage and deductibles, so you can make an informed decision when selecting your car insurance policy. First and foremost, let's clarify what we mean by 'glass coverage.' When we talk about glass coverage, we are referring to any damage to your car's glass components, such as the windshield or windows.
This type of damage is usually covered under comprehensive physical damage coverage, which often has a deductible. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For instance, with Progressive, you can repair a broken windshield without paying a deductible, as long as the crack is repairable and less than 6 inches long. This is great news for drivers who want to avoid out-of-pocket expenses for glass damage. But keep in mind that this only applies if the repair is successful.
If the windshield needs to be replaced, a deductible will likely apply. In addition, some policies may include a lower deductible or no deductible at all for glass claims. In fact, several states have laws that allow for a zero dollar deductible for auto glass, including Kentucky, Arizona, South Carolina, New York, Massachusetts, Florida, and Connecticut. These laws were put in place to encourage drivers to replace broken glass so that it does not pose a danger to other drivers on the road. It is important to note that every state has its own laws regarding zero dollar deductibles. Some states require it while others allow it as an option.
To better understand your glass coverage and the claim process, it is best to sign in to your car insurance policy and see if you have comprehensive physical damage coverage. Your deductible for glass will typically be the same amount as your deductible for non-collision events, unless your state requires that you have full coverage for safety glass. So, what exactly is 'full glass coverage'? This type of coverage allows you to fix your vehicle's safety glass without paying a deductible or with a small deductible. It is important to understand the difference between comprehensive coverage and full glass coverage when it comes to auto insurance. Comprehensive coverage includes protection against several types of damage to your car's glass components, such as windshield damage or broken windows due to theft.
On the other hand, full glass coverage is a supplement to comprehensive insurance that exempts you from the deductible for glass repair or replacement. When it comes to filing a glass claim, it is essential to know what your policy covers and what it does not. Some glass repair companies may offer cash for a damaged windshield if you change yours. This is because they can repair the glass and resell it. However, not all insurance companies will cover this type of claim.
It is always best to consult with your insurance company before making any decisions. As an example, let's take a look at how GEICO handles glass claims. While both comprehensive and full glass coverages provide protection against various types of damage to your car's glass components, they differ in terms of deductible requirements and the degree of protection offered. Navigating the world of auto insurance can be complex, but understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when choosing your policy. Now that we have covered the basics of glass coverage and deductibles, let's take a closer look at some specific states. In Kentucky, Arizona, South Carolina, New York, Massachusetts, Florida, and Connecticut, you can purchase full glass coverage as a supplement to your comprehensive insurance.
This means that if you have both comprehensive and collision coverage, you will typically have coverage for repairs to your car's glass, including full windshield replacement. On the other hand, some states have introduced a zero-dollar glass deductible. This means that when you have full glass coverage along with comprehensive insurance, there is no need for deductibles; the insurer will take care of the entire bill in case any insured glass component is damaged. Similarly, in Connecticut, Minnesota, and New York, you can buy full glass coverage, which is a supplement to comprehensive insurance that exempts you from the deductible for repair or replacement of glasses.
