As an insurance expert, I am often asked whether filing a glass claim will result in an increase in insurance rates. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors. Let's dive into the details and understand how glass claims can affect your insurance rates and what you can do to minimize any potential impact. First and foremost, it's important to note that comprehensive (COMP) claims generally do not increase your rates. This means that if you file a claim to repair or replace a car's glass, your insurance provider may not raise your rates. . This means that if you file a claim to repair or replace a car's glass, your insurance provider may not raise your rates.
However, this does not mean that you should file multiple claims without considering the consequences. One of the best ways to keep your insurance rates from increasing is to keep your COMP and COLL deductible as low as possible. This means that you should opt for a lower deductible when purchasing your car insurance policy. By doing so, you will have to pay less out of pocket in case of a claim, and your insurance provider may be less likely to raise your rates. It's also important to note that every time you file a car insurance claim, your provider has the option of increasing your rate. While a single claim may not result in an increase, multiple claims can certainly have an impact.
This is why it's crucial to consider the potential consequences before filing a claim. The more claims you file, the higher the chances of an increase in your monthly bill. This is because insurers view frequent claims as a sign of higher risk. However, it's worth mentioning that not all insurers treat glass claims the same way. Some may have a policy for one claim per driver per year, while others may have a policy for one claim per vehicle per year. Now, let's address the main question at hand: will your insurance rates increase if you file a claim for auto glass repair? The short answer is no.
Under state law, insurance companies are not allowed to increase your premium for filing a claim. However, this does not mean that there won't be any consequences. If you file multiple claims in a short period of time, your deductible may increase. This means that you will have to pay more out of pocket in case of a future claim. Ultimately, filing a claim is an individual choice, but it's important to remember that you have insurance to protect you when you need it. While filing a claim may not directly result in an increase in your insurance premium, it can still affect your insurance history.
When your insurance company reevaluates your premium (which they do periodically), they will consider your claim history along with other factors. This is why it may be better to pay smaller claims out of pocket if you can afford it. However, if the cost of repair or replacement is too high for you to cover on your own, don't hesitate to file an auto glass insurance claim. The good news is that most insurance companies do not apply a surcharge (an increase in premium) for windshield claims. It's also worth noting that if you file frequent auto repair claims, your insurance company may consider you a high-risk driver, which can lead to an increase in rates. This is why it's important to carefully consider whether or not to file a claim and only do so when necessary. If you have comprehensive coverage in your car insurance policy, then you should be covered for auto glass repair and replacement.
However, it's always a good idea to learn more about how your insurance company handles auto glass claims. You can also ask them how filing a claim may affect your policy, both immediately and in the future. In case the damage to your car's glass was caused by another driver, their insurance should cover the repair or replacement. In some cases, a simple repair may suffice, but in others, a complete replacement may be necessary. It's important to keep in mind that depending on your state's auto insurance policy and requirements, if you file a claim for auto glass, the most you'll have to pay is the deductible. Your insurance must cover the rest of the bill if the damage is covered under your policy. If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, you are likely covered for car glass repair and replacement.
But does insurance cover your windshield? The answer is yes, if you have comprehensive coverage. This is why it's important to have comprehensive coverage if you want to be fully protected. When it comes to choosing an auto glass repair shop, you have the freedom to choose any shop that you prefer. However, it's always a good idea to check with your insurance company first. Some companies may have preferred shops that offer discounts or other benefits. Here are some frequently asked questions about repairing or replacing windshields and filing an auto glass insurance claim:
- In case of minor damage (usually smaller than the size of a dollar bill), some insurance companies may waive the deductible if you choose to repair instead of replacing the glass.
- If your insurance company offers this waiver and you chose it as part of your policy, your monthly rate may not change after filing a claim for auto glass repair, even if the damage was your fault.
- It's always a good idea to collect estimates from at least three different auto glass repair shops before submitting them to your insurance company.
- You can schedule the repair or replacement of your car's glass before or after your insurance company approves the claim.
The choice is yours.
