Cracked Windshield? Here's What You Need to Know
Can you guess what the top cause of windshield damage is? Besides damage from car accidents, rocks and other road debris are the next most common cause of damage. While most small rocks usually don’t cause catastrophic damage at the time of impact, the chips they produce can quickly spread into cracks. Car features like lane assistance, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control are likely dependent on the windshield for their sensors and cameras. So, if your windshield gets cracked, are these features compromised, and will insurance cover a new windshield?
As technology in cars gets more complex with each new model, windshield repairs and replacements have advanced to match the pace. Recalibration of the sensors and technology on your windshield is something you may not think about when you have to get a new windshield. Although the auto glass industry may be complicated, understanding your auto insurance coverage shouldn’t be.
Does insurance cover cracked windshields?
If you’ve ever had a small chip in your windshield, you know how quickly it can turn into a large crack, often leaving you with very little time to figure out what to do. Subject to your deductible, windshield repairs and replacements are likely covered under your auto insurance comprehensive coverage. Review your policy details to make sure you have enough comprehensive coverage and contact your insurance agent if you have questions. Understanding your policy and having appropriate limits is crucial for when the unexpected happens.
Comprehensive coverage not only covers glass breakage, but also:
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Collision with an animal (we’re talking to you, deer season)
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Fire
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Theft
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Hail
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Vandalism
How do you know if you need a repair or replacement?The choice between getting a repair or replacement is heavily based on the size, location, and depth of the damage. If you have a minor chip in your windshield that is smaller than a dime and doesn’t block cameras or sensors, you may only need a windshield repair instead of a replacement. Chips can turn into cracks quickly, so address damage promptly and don’t waste time. Temperature changes, moisture, and hitting bumps in the road can make glass damage spread. Talk to your agent to learn more about windshield repairs. Your windshield will likely need to be replaced if the damage is longer than a dollar bill, deep, spans from edge to edge, or in the driver’s direct line of sight. If you get your windshield replaced, it will likely need to be recalibrated to adjust the advanced features like blind spot detection and heads-up/speed limit display. Talk to your insurance agent to get recommendations on local glass shops to service your vehicle. Alfa® partners with Safelite Auto Glass for windshield repairs and replacement. Is it safe to drive with a cracked windshield?A secure windshield does more than just protect you from outside elements; it aids in structural support, crash protection, and airbag deployment. Driving with windshield damage poses safety risks and may be illegal. Federal law prohibits driving with windshield cracks that limit the driver’s line of sight, cracks within a three-inch distance of each other, or damage any larger than 3/4 inch in diameter. Additionally, safety features you might have in your windshield like sensors and cameras may be restricted by glass damage. Short answer is: no, it’s not safe to drive with a crack in your windshield. If your windshield gets chipped or cracked, it can restrict your line of sight and compromise the overall integrity of your vehicle. Tips to protect your windshieldWhile there isn’t a way to completely avoid windshield damage, here are some practical ways to protect your windshield and prevent cracks from getting worse:
Good quality wiper blades can reduce stress on your windshield and keep your glass protected. Avoid driving too close to large vehicles like semi-trucks, dump trucks, or any vehicle transporting anything. If you notice a small chip on your windshield, it’s important to get it repaired as soon as possible before it spreads. Regardless of how complex new automobile technology is, our claims process remains simple. Say goodbye to shattered expectations with auto insurance from Alfa. Contact your local agent to get started today or if you have questions about your coverage. *This is not an insurance policy. It is intended only to provide a general description of Alfa Insurance® and/or its product lines and services. An actual policy contains the specific details of the deductibles, coverages, conditions and exclusions. Your Alfa® agent can explain the policy and benefits and answer any questions you may have before you buy. |
