Arizona is in the running for cracked windshield capital of the world, so it’s probably only a matter of time before you have to deal with a windshield replacement or repair. What will that cost, and will insurance cover it? Keep reading to find out.
How Much Does a Windshield Replacement Cost?
A windshield replacement can cost as high as $1,500. You may remember the days of $150 windshield replacements, but cars were very different back then. Almost all of them used very similar and basic glass.
Today’s windshields are packed with a number of advanced features. This includes a custom-tailored aerodynamic design, tinting designed to optimize vision, and technology such as antennas, sensors, and heads-up displays. These features can be very useful, but they add costs in both what you need to buy and the amount of labor that it takes to reinstall a windshield.
Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Replacements?
The good news for drivers is that Arizona has a free windshield replacement law. If you have a comprehensive coverage policy that you purchased in Arizona, you have full glass coverage with no deductible. The law requires insurance companies to cover the entire cost, so you won’t pay a dime for a windshield replacement unless you have other damage as well. Note that this law does not apply to liability-only policies since these policies only cover damage that you cause to others and not what happens to your car.
If you’re a visitor or temporary resident, you may have coverage from a state that doesn’t mandate free windshield replacements. In these states, your windshield should be covered by your general comprehensive coverage, and you’d need to pay any deductible on your policy. You may also have the option to purchase optional glass coverage.
What if You Have Costs Not Covered By Insurance?
Even with full glass coverage, there may be cases where your damage isn’t covered by insurance, or you have to pay your deductible. For example, if you’re struck by gravel, it may both crack your windshield and scratch the paint on your hood. If you’re able to prove which truck failed to secure their load or who allowed debris to be left in the road, you may be able to file an insurance claim or lawsuit against that party to recover your losses.
How Can You Avoid Glass Damage?
While a windshield replacement may be free with insurance, you’ll still likely be faced with the hassle of having to take time off of work or being without your car for a day or two. To prevent windshield damage, follow these safe driving tips.
- Stay well back from dump trucks, trailers, or other vehicles carrying rocks or other debris. Change lanes if possible, and only attempt to pass when you can quickly get in front of the truck.
- Be on the lookout for gravel or other debris on the road especially around construction zones. If you see debris, increase your following distance as another vehicle’s tires may kick it up towards your windshield.
- Avoid unpaved roads. If you must drive on unpaved roads, drive slowly and stay behind the dust cloud created by any cars in front of you.
How Can You Get the Right Coverage?
To make sure you have an insurance policy covered by Arizona’s free windshield replacement law, talk to your local insurance agent at Jarosch Insurance. We can help you make sure you have the coverage you need, search for a better price, or move your policy to your new address.
