Did you know that Arizona is the leading state in the nation for auto glass repairs? Not only can a broken windshield be bothersome, but when you have to deal with a cracked windshield more than once in a calendar year, the issue can be more costly than you think.
Arizona auto insurance laws have changed. Previously, insurance companies were not allowed to non-renew your auto insurance for any reason other than you failing to pay your premium. Arizona used to be referred to as a “non-can” (for noncancel) state, because it was hard for insurance companies to terminate an auto policy, once it was in force. That’s changed, insurance companies are now allowed to “non-renew” auto policies for claims activity and glass claims count!
Auto policies have made it easy to file a glass claim. Simply pay a deductible, if you have one, repair, or replace your windshield and off you go. Anyone who’s driven in the Phoenix area is familiar with this scenario and has likely participated in it more than once. It’s not a complicated claim to file, but the ease and frequency of doing so seems to imply a less significant claim than those involving higher financial payouts. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Insurance companies pay a lot of money on this kind of reoccurring claim, so they pay a lot of attention to how often glass claims are filed and look for ways to minimize them.
When Does Auto Insurance Cover a Damaged Windshield?
If you carry comprehensive auto insurance coverage, damage to your windshield and car windows should be covered under your policy. But glass coverage is an optional coverage designed to protect your vehicle from damage not caused by another vehicle. Some common examples of situations where this type of coverage can be used include:
- A tree branch falls on your car
- Acts of vandalism
- Hail damage
- Rocks or debris flying into your windshield while driving
- Auto accidents involving animals like deer or elk
While most auto insurance policies will include some type of auto glass protection, it’s important to confirm you have it, rather than assume you do. This little coverage can easily get misplaced, especially during times of replacing autos, drivers and/or moving or relocating. It’s always prudent to confirm your coverage … especially before a claim.
When involved in an auto accident where a third party is responsible for a broken windshield or damaged glass, their property damage liability coverage will kick in to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair or Replace a Broken Windshield?
Generally speaking, it can cost $300 to $700 to replace a cracked windshield and $60 to $150 to repair a chip. However, costs easily exceed $1000- $1500 for higher-end vehicles, which usually include technology advanced windshields. Clear resin can be injected into a new chip or crack on a windshield for a quick fix and minimal cost. But when the chip or crack spreads beyond the size of a dollar bill, a replacement windshield is typically considered necessary.
Glass should no longer be dismissed as insignificant and non-consequential claim activity. Insurance companies aren’t treating it that way; they’re outright denying coverage eligibility, or “non-renewing” those with frequent glass claim activity. Pay attention to your claim activity & use it when it is best for you; including your glass coverage. Beware, some roads are more prone to certain types of debris, all of which turn into flying projectiles when they are flying down the road toward your windshield.
If you find yourself with regular glass claim activity, you can help yourself sometimes by paying a cash price for your new windshield. It’s amazing how much less glass companies will accept for payment when they know you’re paying out of pocket, instead of the insurance company paying the claim.
Contact Imes Insurance Associates Today
Don’t get caught without the right level of insurance protection when you need it most. Instead, invest in comprehensive auto insurance coverage form Imes Insurance Associates today. Interested in learning more about the benefits of investing in total insurance protection? Call (480) 820-2020 or contact our friendly Mesa insurance agents online today to request a free quote.
