How do GEICO glass claims work?

GEICO glass and windshield claims are subject to a $0-$1,500 deductible, depending on how the glass damage occurs, where it is on the car, and whether or not the policyholder has comprehensive coverage. If your glass or windshield is damaged in an accident that is not your fault, it should be covered by the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. If it is damaged in a collision caused by you, whether with another vehicle or an object such as a fence or a tree, it can be covered by GEICO collision insurance. This is optional coverage that you can get when you purchase your auto policy.

To make a claim for glass damage not caused by a collision, you need to have GEICO’s comprehensive coverage. This is also a choice you make when you buy your policy. In general, GEICO’s comprehensive insurance covers glass damage caused by:

• Fire
• Flood
• Theft
• Falling or flying objects
• Vandalism
• Animals
• Hail
• Windstorms
• Lightning
• Explosions
• Earthquakes
• Civil disturbances

GEICO will waive your comprehensive deductible for repairs to your windshield. Required by law in a few states, this $0 deductible coverage encourages drivers to fix a seemingly minor issue that can become a serious hazard if left unrepaired. However, your deductible will apply if other windows/glass areas are damaged in most states.

It’s important to repair any glass damage on your vehicle quickly, especially a damaged windshield. It’s unsafe to drive with a broken windshield, and the damage can spread over time.

As a rule of thumb, chips or cracks less than the size of your cell phone may be repairable. Anything larger probably calls for glass replacement. Either way, repairs and replacements aren’t time-consuming – most can be completed within the hour.

In most states if the windshield needs to be replaced you have to pay the comprehensive deductible. Typically the only time it is free is if the chip/crack is smaller than a dollar bill or the state requires that it be free. 

Former GEICO Management