Comprehensive auto insurance policies are designed to protect your vehicle in multiple ways. Damage to your vehicle is a very common issue. Your car’s windshield may suffer damage in unique ways. Perhaps a random tree branch hits it. Perhaps inclement weather is in the area, and the debris flying around cracks your windshield. Driving with a cracked windshield is extremely dangerous. Look over your car insurance coverage so that you can get your windshield fixed as soon as possible. If your vehicle suffers windshield damage, here’s a look at how to proceed.
- Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage generally covers windshield damage. However, if you’ve chosen to rely on liability coverage, you are not protected if your vehicle suffers windshield damage. If you are involved in an accident, and the other driver was at fault, you can get your windshield repaired through the at-fault party’s liability coverage.
- Handling Deductibles
Your deductible is the amount that you are responsible for paying out of pocket towards the damages before your insurance takes over. Compare the cost of the windshield damage with your deductible. If the cost to repair the windshield is higher than your deductible, you should avoid filing a claim.
- Filing a Claim
Contact your insurer to start the claims process immediately after the damages occur. Many online carriers have developed efficient methods to file a claim, and you can start the process of filing a claim through their app. Once your carrier verifies the claim, you can take your vehicle to a garage your carrier works with and make a cashless claim. If you choose to have the windshield repaired out of the network, you will have to cover a deductible and then submit the necessary documents to file a claim.
- Possible Windshield Damage Cause
Comprehensive damage to your windshield includes an accidental fire, vandalism, or severe weather. Your windshield can also suffer damage due to a collision with another vehicle. Handling claims usually varies according to the case. If your windshield is damaged in a theft attempt, you will have to file a police report in addition to your claim. Check your insurance policy carefully.
- Take Action Immediately
Even if your windshield suffers a minor crack, it won’t take long for it to spread. Make sure that you fix the small crack before it spreads. Take action before things get worse and you are unable to drive your car.
A crack in your windshield can lead to serious problems if you don’t get it fixed immediately. Luckily your comprehensive car insurance coverage should take care of the repairs. If you have any questions about your auto insurance policy, contact our team of insurance experts at Family Financial Insurance Group, and we can assist you.