Have you ever been driving along an old country road and suddenly been hit by a flying rock? What about fast-moving debris during a windstorm on the highway? If you’ve ever experienced either of these scenarios, you probably know what comes next—a cracked, broken or shattered windshield that is unsafe to drive with. Unsure if a damaged windshield is covered under your current auto insurance policy? Keep reading to learn more about this common issue and the best coverage options available for broken glass claims.
Will My Auto Insurance Repair or Replace My Windshield?
It’s easy to take your windshield for granted when it provides a clear and protected view of the road. When your windshield is quietly doing its job and giving you minimal fuss, you probably don’t give it much thought. But the moment that a ship or crack appears—even if it’s not in your line of sight—you’re bound to feel irritated every time you get behind the wheel. Not only are cracked windshields annoying, but they can be dangerous too. Because chips and cracks can only get bigger with time, they may obstruct or distort your view of the road.
Typically, chips and cracks in your windshield should be included in Comprehensive Coverage under your auto insurance policy. This inclusion allows for policyholders to make a claim and pay a deductible to repair or replace a damaged windshield. Additionally, many national insurance providers offer a Full Glass Coverage option that covers the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield with lower deductibles or zero deductible. This option may be a good idea for drivers who do a lot of highway driving or anyone who may travel on dirt roads often as well.
What Causes Windshields to Crack?
Car windshield cracks can often appear out of nowhere with no real explanation. However, these mysterious windshield cracks are usually the result of a common underlying cause, including:
Temperature Changes
This is one of the most common reasons for a seemingly magically appearing crack in your windshield. When the temperature outside changes drastically, it can cause a stress fracture in the glass that results in a creeping crack that may eventually distort your line of sight.
Pressure Changes
Stress cracks in glass can also form as the result of changes in pressure. For example, high wind pressure during a storm can easily send out shockwaves in the air, causing quick changes in the atmosphere and leading to cracks in your windshield.
Structural Issues
Windshields play an essential role in your vehicle’s overall safety system. If your car was recently involved in an accident where the airbags deployed or the frame was damaged, it may be more vulnerable to stress cracks in the future.
Invest in Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage Today
There’s nothing worse than getting into your only to find that your windshield is cracked and your view obstructed. Don’t let your big family road trip plans get derailed by a chipped or cracked windshield. Instead, protect your vehicle and your loved ones with comprehensive auto insurance coverage that provides quick solutions to damaged glass and other common auto issues.
At Insurance Innovations, Inc, we’re proud to be your local choice for total insurance protection in the greater Grafton & Thiensville, WI area. To learn more about our personal insurance options or to request a free quote, give us a call at (262) 643-4020 or contact our friendly independent insurance agents online today.
