It might surprise you to learn that damage to car windows and windshields leads to more auto insurance claims than any other part of a vehicle. If you’ve been proactive and chosen an auto insurance policy that includes auto glass repair or replacement, you’ve already shown you’re a savvy driver. However, when your car needs a windshield or a window glass repair, submitting a claim isn’t always the best route.
Why might filing a claim not be ideal? The team at Car Repair Online is here to explain what you need to consider.
How Filing an Auto Glass Claim Can Impact Your Insurance Premium
Whenever you file a claim with your auto insurance – even for something seemingly minor like auto glass repair or replacement – your insurance company has the right to increase your premium. While a single claim might not cause a significant jump in your rates, multiple claims certainly can. Generally speaking, the more claims you file over time, the higher the likelihood of seeing a rise in your monthly insurance bill.
If the damage to your auto glass was your fault, even if it’s your first claim, there’s a real possibility your rate could go up. Insurance providers assess risk, and in their eyes, you become a higher financial risk after filing a claim where you are at fault.
Remember, insurance is a business. Just like a low credit score can result in higher interest rates on loans, a history of claims can lead to a higher insurance premium. This is because you’re perceived as a greater financial risk to the insurance company.
Alt: Close-up of a cracked windshield showing significant damage, highlighting the potential need for auto glass repair.
Discuss Your Options With Your Insurance Agent
Unsure if filing a claim for auto glass repair will negatively affect your insurance costs? The best course of action is to get in touch with your insurance agent and ask them directly.
Ask specifically about their company’s procedures for handling auto glass insurance claims. Inquire about how a claim might impact your policy both immediately and when it comes time for renewal. Getting this information upfront can prevent any unwelcome surprises of a rate increase later on. If your premium is likely to increase, knowing in advance allows you to prepare and make informed decisions.
When Filing an Insurance Claim for Auto Glass Repair Makes Sense
Ultimately, the decision to file an auto glass repair insurance claim rests with you.
However, there are definitely situations where filing a claim is a smart move, and others where paying for the repair out-of-pocket might be a better financial decision in the long run. If the repair cost is less than your deductible, filing a claim won’t make financial sense because your insurance won’t cover anything below your deductible amount.
Depending on the specifics of your insurance policy, here are some situations where filing an auto glass claim may be the right choice:
Minor Chips and Cracks in Your Window
For small chips and cracks, often smaller than a dollar bill, some insurance companies might waive your deductible if you choose auto glass repair over full replacement. It’s worth contacting your insurance provider to see if this is an option under your policy. This can be a significant benefit, allowing you to get the damage fixed without any out-of-pocket expenses and potentially avoiding a rate increase.
Damage Caused by Another Driver
If another driver is at fault for the auto glass damage, their insurance should be responsible for covering your auto glass replacement or repair. In these cases, you typically won’t need to file a claim with your own insurance company. Instead, you’ll need to obtain the at-fault driver’s insurance information and work with their provider to process the claim. This scenario ideally shouldn’t impact your insurance rates.
Alt: A crack extending across a car’s side window, illustrating a type of auto glass damage that might necessitate repair or replacement.
Your Policy Includes Accident Forgiveness
If your insurance policy includes accident forgiveness, and you’ve opted for this coverage, your monthly premium might not increase after filing an auto glass repair claim – even if you were at fault for the damage. Accident forgiveness is designed to protect you from rate increases after your first at-fault accident or claim. Check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your accident forgiveness coverage and how it applies to auto glass claims.
How to Get Your Insurance to Cover Auto Glass Repairs
First and foremost, thoroughly review your auto insurance policy to confirm whether it covers the specific auto glass service you require.
If you have comprehensive coverage – which is usually required if you have full coverage – your policy will generally cover auto glass services. However, the extent of coverage and your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your chosen coverage level and your deductible amount.
Once you understand your policy’s coverage and have determined whether filing a claim is financially sensible for you, here are the steps to take:
Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately
The first step is to contact your insurance company to file a claim. You can usually do this by calling them directly or filing a claim online through their website or mobile app, if available.
When filing, it’s helpful to have a police report on hand if the damage was caused by another driver, as this serves as official documentation of the incident and can support your claim. You’ll also likely need to submit photos or videos that clearly show the auto glass damage, regardless of how it occurred.
Obtain Service Estimates from Reputable Shops
It’s a good practice to get estimates from at least three different auto glass repair shops. You may need to submit these estimates to your insurer as part of the claims process. However, if you have a preferred auto glass repair shop due to prior positive experiences, you are generally free to choose them.
Your insurance company might also suggest preferred local auto glass shops within their network. While you can consider their recommendations, you are not obligated to choose any of them. The final decision of where to get your auto glass repaired is ultimately yours.
Schedule Your Auto Glass Service
You have the flexibility to schedule your auto glass repair or replacement either before or after your insurance company officially approves the claim – the choice is yours. If you schedule the service beforehand, your insurer will typically reimburse you for the covered amount once the claim is processed and approved.
You can opt for in-shop service at the repair shop’s location or mobile service, where a technician comes to your location. Keep in mind that mobile auto glass repair can be weather-dependent. Unfavorable weather conditions on your scheduled service day might require you to reschedule your appointment.
Need Expert Auto Glass Repair Near Minneapolis or St. Paul?
If you’re considering filing an insurance claim for auto glass repair or replacement in the Minneapolis or St. Paul area, let Car Repair Online be your trusted partner. Our team has extensive experience navigating the intricacies of auto insurance claims and is ready to assist you throughout the process.
To learn more about our comprehensive auto glass services and how we can help you with your insurance claim, please contact us at 651-789-1111 or send us a message through our website. You can also request a free online estimate, and we’ll get back to you promptly!
Alt: A skilled technician performing a mobile windshield repair, demonstrating the convenience of on-site auto glass services.
