Whether cold weather struck or gravel shot through your windshield, chips are an inevitable inconvenience that comes with owning a vehicle. While you may be able to get away with the chip for weeks or even months, you could save yourself both money and time if you fix it right away. In fact, most small cracks less than 6 inches long are fixable without replacing your entire windshield. Many insurance agencies will often waive your deductible on small repairs if you call them right away because it will save them money down the road as well.
Waiting to fix your chip can cause the crack to extend or spider web later. Insurance companies may even deny your claim if you procrastinate fixing your windshield.
When deciding whether or not to file a claim, compare the cost of your windshield to what the cost of your standard deductible would be, if you don’t have glass coverage. In order to receive an accurate estimate of your windshield, get at least 2 to 3 quotes, especially because they are commonly repaired. If the cost of the windshield does not meet your deductible, it may not be worth it to file the claim. Keep in mind, any claim you file will show up on your claims history which may affect your rates.
It’s unlikely that a windshield repair will immediately affect your insurance premium because they are considered an “unavoidable claim,” but over time your claims may add up and your rates may be raised.
If you drive more than the average person and tend to file many glass claims you would be a prime candidate for needing to file a claim (if you have glass coverage) for a chip repair versus waiting a week or two, the crack growing and them needing a whole new windshield. A chip repair is usually about $20 but a new windshield, depending on the car can be anywhere between $200 to $2000. Insurance companies are starting to crack down on insured filing multiple glass claims for an entire windshield, since the cost is considerably higher.
Need a quote? Give us a call.
AZ Insurance Team 480-535-5709 https://www.azinsuranceteam.com
*All policies are a little different and this may not be applicable to your insurance policy, talk to your agent to see what your policy covers.*
Comments