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An agent draws up documents for broken windshield in car.

No matter how it happened, a crack or chip in your autoglass should be checked out by a repair shop since it is considered unsafe. Sometimes the idea of getting your auto insurance company involved causes uncertainty, because no one wants their premium affected. 

The question “will it affect my insurance” isn't quite as simple as a yes or no. 

Depending on how the damage occurred and what kind of insurance coverage you have, filing a claim may be worthwhile. However, if you don’t have the type of insurance coverage that will take care of the entire cost it may be best to cover the expense yourself since auto glass repair or replacement is fairly budget-friendly.

Discuss Your Options With Your Insurance Agent

If you have questions about whether filing a claim will negatively impact your monthly insurance bill, contact your agent directly. Inquire about how your insurance company handles auto glass claims and ask how the claim may affect your policy, including the future possibility of any premium increases. 

Ultimately, the decision to file an auto glass repair insurance claim is yours to make. You aren't required to file a claim if you would rather just pay out of pocket. Keep in mind, there are certain situations when filing the claim is best, and other times when it’s better to pay for repairs out of pocket. If the cost of repairs is low enough that you won't meet your deductible, don’t bother filing a claim because your policy won’t pay out. Depending on your policy’s stipulations, the following situations may warrant an insurance claim:

  • Small chips and cracks. In cases of minor damage, usually smaller than the size of a dollar bill, certain insurance companies may waive your deductible if you elect auto glass repair over replacement. 
  • Another driver’s fault. If the damage was another driver’s fault, that person’s insurance should cover your auto glass replacement or repair. In this situation, you won’t need to file a claim with your insurance company, but you’ll need to acquire the other party’s insurance information.
  • Accident forgiveness. If your insurance provider offers accident forgiveness, and you’ve elected that as part of your policy, your monthly rate may not change after filing an auto glass repair claim — even if the damage was your fault.

Liability coverage vs Comprehensive 

If you carry comprehensive insurance, chances are your windshield repair or replacement will be covered in full. Comprehensive insurance typically covers any non-collision damages that follow break-ins, vandalism, or accidental damages.

If you have liability coverage only, auto glass isn’t covered in your policy. 

Still, you need to understand the policy details. Some policies that talk about glass replacement may not include all glass surfaces, which means you may have coverage for side and back windows, but not the windshield. 

If you’re lucky enough to have a no-deductible auto glass rider on your insurance policy, you shouldn't have any out-of-pocket costs. As always, your insurance company will be your best resource for answers about your specific policy. It's worth taking the time to give them a call to inquire and be sure your out of pocket expense is as little as possible. Remember that you get to choose which glass shop you get the work done at. Smiley’s Glass will make getting your auto glass work done convenient and affordable. Give us a call for a free quote (804) 320-7172.

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