Auto Glass & Windshield Insurance Questions

Will going through my insurance for a windshield repair or replacement raise my rates?

When looking to get your windshield repaired or replaced, do not be afraid to go through your insurance. Many people are afraid that making an insurance claim will raise their premium rates. This is generally not the case.

A windshield crack or chip is rarely your fault, and the insurance company will often claim it a no-fault claim. Your premiums will not go up, and you can get the service done with little or no money out of your pocket. As an incentive to get people to repair their windshields before the damage is extensive, insurance company may even waive the deductible you would otherwise pay. In some U.S. states it is even required.

Will my insurance cover the repair if I use a repair shop of my choice?

Most major insurance companies have a glass claims network that they use to appoint repairs for claims to be done. They will often have a number for you to call specifically for glass claims.

When you call this number, you are often speaking with an employee of the glass network, and not a representative of your insurance company. Repair shops in this network may be referred to as “preferred providers.” The only requirement for them to be a preferred provider is that they do a repair at a low cost for the insurance company.

However, as the consumer you have the right to choose which repair shop you go to. It may even be helpful to go to the repair shop of your choice and have the shop help you deal with your insurance company. Or if you would rather deal with your insurance company yourself you may need to insist on a particular shop. You do not have go to a shop of their choosing. You have the right to get service done where you prefer.