Is there a deductible for windshield replacement?

The states that offer free windshield replacement are Florida, Kentucky and South Carolina. In these states, insurance companies cannot charge a deductible when drivers with comprehensive coverage need to repair or replace their windshield.

Additionally, insurance companies in Arizona, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota and New York are required to offer drivers the option of purchasing full glass coverage. This policy add-on allows drivers to have a specific glass repair deductible that is either $0 or lower than their comprehensive deductible.… read full answer

It should be noted that even though you don’t have to pay a full deductible for windshield repair or replacement in states that waive or reduce the deductible amount, the coverage itself is not free. In order for your insurer to cover the cost of fixing your windshield, you need to pay for comprehensive insurance. This type of coverage pays for damage to your vehicle caused by events other than an accident, such as a natural disaster or vandalism. If the windshield damage is caused by an accident, then you can use your collision coverage or the at-fault driver’s property damage liability insurance to pay for repairs.

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.… read full answer

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.