Comprehensive insurance adds protection for events not related to a collision, such as a tree branch falling on your vehicle, a rock hitting the glass, hitting a deer, or a hailstorm breaking your windshield. In any of these cases, comprehensive insurance could cover the replacement of damaged glass, minus the deductible. However, some policies only cover the side and rear windows of cars, not the repair or replacement of windshields. When you file a claim for auto glass repair, you'll need to pay the deductible before your insurance covers the remaining cost of replacing or repairing car windows.
It's important to document the damage as thoroughly as possible. If the damage is greater, it might be best to replace the windshield with new glass. To qualify for glass coverage, states generally require you to have comprehensive coverage on your auto policy. If you have comprehensive coverage under your Progressive auto policy, you won't have to pay a deductible if your windshield can be repaired rather than replaced in all 50 states and if all coverage requirements are met.
In addition to states that have free windshield replacement laws, some states offer independent glass coverage with a no-deductible or low-deductible option to replace windshields. If you have questions about whether you should repair or replace a windshield, your insurance company or a glass specialist can tell you. Completely intact glass not only protects you from exterior debris but also contributes to the structural integrity of your vehicle. With the right type of car insurance, your policy can provide coverage for certain types of windshield repairs or auto glass replacement.
A good rule of thumb suggests that if a crack in the glass is at least six inches long, it's best to completely replace the windshield. On the other hand, replacing windows in a car can cost several hundred dollars, so if your deductible is quite low, you might want to file a claim.
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