The windshield provides an essential safety function in that it keeps objects from penetrating into the body of your vehicle, but windshields do suffer damage sometimes. For example, it’s not uncommon for a rock to get kicked up and into your windshield by a truck driving in front of you. Windshield damage often starts with a small chip that can easily be repaired. But, if left unrepaired, that small chip can turn into a big crack over time, resulting in the need for a full windshield replacement.

However, windshield damage can also be more severe and require windshield replacement. When windshields are severely damaged, they may shatter completely or split into many large pieces upon impact or contact with other objects. Windshield replacement is usually required when windshield damage is so severe that windshield repair may not be an option.

The Impact of Insurance

You’ve got insurance coverage for a reason, and that is to pay for unexpected expenses such as windshield replacement. To replace your windshield is something that you may not be able to afford on your own, but with the help of your insurance company, it can be done without any problems. Depending on what type of coverage you have, how long you’ve been a client, and the deductible you must pay upfront before receiving reimbursement from your insurance company.

Filing A Claim

Many people do not understand that they can file a claim as soon as they need their windshield replaced. First, call your auto insurer or insurance company hotline number (often listed on the back of your insurance card) to ask them what you should do. Next, contact your service provider like Super Auto Glass. Tell the representative over the phone that you will be filing a claim by providing your basic information (name, address, etc.) and insurance provider.

To help with windshield replacement costs, you can call your insurance provider to see if windshield replacement falls under the “windshield coverage” portion of your policy. You should also ask about any deductible charges associated with windshield replacement since most insurance providers require their customers to pay at least a portion of windshield replacement costs.

When it’s damaged, you need to fix it as soon as possible. Many drivers have a hard time knowing what steps they should take after their windshield sustains damage, making getting a new one difficult. Here are some tips on how to get a windshield replaced through insurance.

Insurance Tips

Contact your insurance company.

You will want to let them know that your windshield needs to be replaced. They will typically have you fill out some paperwork, which they can give you when you call them. It is important that you tell them immediately because the more time passes, the worse it may look for your claim.

Submit the necessary documents.

If you have been in a car accident, then your insurance company will be even more motivated to help you get a new windshield.

Get a quote from a glass shop.

Many companies will come to where you are and replace your windshield at an affordable price. You can go online or call a company to get a quote. If they are too expensive, there may be other companies you can use instead.

Ask your insurance company about your deductible.

Unfortunately, the price of windshields goes up every year because transportation-related accidents are among the top causes of death in this country. Your insurance will need to make sure that the deductible they are charging you is worth it.

Get your windshield replaced as soon as possible.

Even if there isn’t any damage, it’s a good idea to have it inspected every six months. A rock could hit your windshield at any time and cause damage that must be fixed by replacing the entire thing with a new windshield.

Summary

When you have your windshield replaced through insurance, you will have to pay the deductible, but it’s still far cheaper to do so than having to pay for a new one outright. Make sure that your insurance company knows how important it is for them to replace a windshield quickly. The longer a damaged windshield stays on a vehicle, the more likely it is that the damage won’t be covered.