Do Glass Claims Make My Car Insurance Rate Go Up?

It's a frosty February morning in Liverpool, and as you brush snow off your car to leave for work, you notice a long crack stretching across your windshield—likely the result of yesterday's temperature swings.

As you assess the damage, your mind races with questions. Will this cost a fortune to fix? Should you file an insurance claim? And if you do, will your insurance rate skyrocket?

At the Horan insurance agency, we've heard these concerns from many Central New York drivers. We understand the stress of unexpected vehicle damage and the worry about long-term financial consequences.

As an independent agency working with multiple carriers, we have unique insights into how different types of claims affect your policy. We're here to guide you through the confusion and help you make informed decisions about your car insurance.

In this article, we'll explore the truth about glass claims and their impact on your car insurance rates. We'll provide clear, factual information to help you navigate this common situation with confidence.

The Reality of Glass Claims and Insurance Rates: Good News for Most Drivers

Let's address the main question right away: Typically, a single glass claim won't make your insurance rate go up. Here's why:

Glass Claims: A Special Category in the World of Auto Insurance

Insurance companies often view glass claims, particularly windshield repairs or replacements, differently from other types of claims. There are several reasons for this:

1. Frequency: Glass claims are common and often unavoidable.
2. Safety concerns: Driving with a damaged windshield is unsafe and illegal in many states.
3. Cost efficiency: The cost of repair is usually relatively low compared to other types of claims.
4. Inspection requirements: You can't pass inspection with a cracked windshield, which is another reason why glass coverage is often handled differently.

If you just have one blown windshield, that's not likely to make your overall rate go up, provided you haven't had other claims in the last few years. This means that in most cases, you can get your windshield fixed without worrying about long-term increases in your insurance costs or losing your accident-free discount.

When Glass Claims Might Affect Your Rate: Exceptions to Be Aware Of

While the news is generally good, there are situations where glass claims could potentially impact your rate:

Multiple Claims in a Short Period: The Frequency Factor

If you find yourself needing frequent windshield replacements, it could eventually affect your premium. Insurance companies might view multiple claims, even for glass, as a pattern of increased risk.

Other Recent Claims: The Cumulative Effect on Your Policy

If you've had other claims in the recent past, adding a glass claim on top might push you into a higher risk category. This is why it's important to consider your overall claims history when deciding whether to file.

Read our article, Insurance Claims: Frequency vs. Severity for more on this subject.

The Changing Landscape of Windshield Repairs: Technology's Impact on Costs and Decision-Making

Windshield repairs and replacements have become more complex and expensive due to the advanced technology now built into them. As shown in the image, modern windshields can project information like speed directly onto the glass, creating a floating display for the driver.

These high-tech features often include heads-up displays, rain sensors, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) cameras. The technology makes windshields more costly to replace but also more crucial to your vehicle's safety systems.

This complexity underscores the importance of having adequate insurance coverage and may influence your decision to file a claim versus paying out of pocket. It's crucial to understand your specific policy, as coverage can vary between insurance carriers.

Factors to Consider When Facing Windshield Damage

When faced with windshield damage, consider these factors:

1. Your deductible: If the repair cost is close to your deductible, it might make sense to pay out of pocket. However, most personal insurance policies have a $0 glass deductible.
2. Your claims history: If you've had several recent claims, you might want to avoid filing another if possible.
3. The extent of the damage: Small chips can often be repaired quickly and inexpensively, while full replacements are more costly.
4. Time sensitivity: Addressing damage promptly can prevent further spreading and more extensive repairs.

Understanding Your Glass Coverage: Deductibles and Policy Details

Also consider the specifics of your glass coverage:

1. Deductibles: Many policies offer zero-deductible coverage for glass claims because the cost of windshield repair or replacement is often less than or close to standard deductible amounts.
2. Comprehensive coverage: Glass damage is typically covered under your comprehensive coverage, not collision. Learn the difference between these two coverages.

The Convenience of Modern Glass Repair Services

When you do need to get your windshield repaired or replaced, many companies offer convenient services:

1. Mobile repairs: Companies like Safelite and Glass America often come directly to your home or business.
2. Quick service: Many repairs can be completed in your driveway in about an hour.

This convenience can make addressing windshield damage less of a hassle, whether you're filing a claim or paying out of pocket.

Protect Your Vehicle and Finances with Expert Guidance

Facing a cracked windshield can be stressful. You might worry about the cost of repair, the potential impact on your insurance rates, and the safety implications of driving with damaged glass. These concerns can lead to indecision, potentially putting you and your passengers at risk.

Don't let uncertainty about your insurance hold you back from addressing important safety issues like windshield damage. With the right information and guidance, you can make decisions that protect both your vehicle and your financial well-being.

At Horan, we're committed to helping you navigate these decisions with confidence. Our approach includes:

1. Personalized advice: We can provide guidance based on your specific policy, claims history, and the circumstances of your glass damage.
2. Policy review: We'll ensure you have the right coverage to protect you from unexpected expenses.
3. Claims assistance: If you decide to file a claim, we'll guide you through the process to make it as smooth as possible.

Click the Get a Quote button below to start a conversation with our knowledgeable team. We'll help you find the right coverage to protect you in all of life's unexpected moments—without worrying about every little chip or crack.

Also be sure to read: Why Breaking Your Car Window for Locked Keys Puts Your Insurance at Risk.