Does my auto insurance cover broken windows?

Whether due to a collision, a hailstorm, or a game of catch gone wrong, broken car windows are a sight no one likes to see. While a garbage bag and duct tape may work as a temporary fix, you should always replace a cracked or shattered window as soon as possible.

Fortunately, most auto insurance covers broken windows. And, depending on your insurance coverage and company, your windows could be protected from everything from vandalism to tree branches.

With this guide, we’ll help you find out what kind of auto insurance covers broken windows and answer some common questions related to finding coverage and filing claims.

After you find out all you need to know about auto insurance for broken windows, enter your ZIP code in our free online quote tool to compare rates from car insurance companies and find an option that’s right for you.

What kind of auto insurance covers broken windows?

Broken car windows are generally covered under both collision and comprehensive insurance. You’ll need to purchase both of these separately from liability insurance, which is legally required in many states and only covers damage caused by your vehicle to others’ property.

• Collision coverage can help repair or replace windows that are damaged or destroyed as the result of a roadway accident.
• Comprehensive coverage can help repair or replace windows that are damaged or destroyed by causes other than collisions, including fire, hail, and vandalism.
• “Full coverage” is a term sometimes used to refer to a policy that includes both collision and comprehensive coverage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, nearly 80% of all drivers choose to purchase full coverage auto insurance.

Keep in mind that collision and comprehensive insurance often require a deductible, meaning you’ll have to pay a certain amount for your broken windows out-of-pocket before your insurance covers the remainder of the repair/replacement costs.

Which auto insurance companies cover broken windows?

Since broken windows are typically covered by collision and comprehensive auto insurance policies, most major auto insurance companies that offer those policies will cover your broken car windows.

If you’re planning to purchase auto insurance and want to know which auto insurance companies have the most affordable plan for you, we recommend starting out your search by comparing Progressive, State Farm, and Geico as these are the three largest U.S. auto insurers by market share.

Does auto insurance cover side windows and windshield damage?

Yes, your side windows, windshield, and rear windshield are all covered by either collision or comprehensive auto insurance, depending on how they are damaged. Whether the glass is cracked or shattered by hail, rocks, or even a rogue golf ball, comprehensive insurance can cover repairs or replacement.

But just because you can have your insurance cover the cost of a broken window or windshield doesn’t always mean you should. As auto glass repair often costs less than your insurance deductible, you may be better off paying out-of-pocket if the damage is minimal.

How do I file a claim for a broken car window?

Filing a claim for a broken window can be a stressful experience if you’re not familiar with the process. Here are some steps you can follow to make it easier to receive a payment from your insurance company.

• Take plenty of pictures (or even a video) of the damage to your vehicle. You may be able to send these directly to your insurer via email or a mobile app.
• Keep records of any payments or other relevant information related to the accident or other event that damaged your vehicle, including proof of towing or other roadside service costs.
• Make sure to file a claim as soon as it’s safe to do so. The exact amount of time you have to file will vary based on your policy.

When it comes to your rights when filing a claim, the State of Washington notes that you can and should expect a clear explanation of your insurer’s coverage decision shortly after you file as well as timely responses to any questions you may have during the claim process.

What to Consider Before Buying Auto Insurance That Covers Broken Windows

Before you buy, consider this review of how windows are covered by insurance.

• Nearly all collision and comprehensive auto insurance policies will cover broken car windows.
• We recommend starting your search for auto insurance with State Farm, Geico, and Progressive as these are the largest U.S. auto insurers by market share.
• Unless multiple windows are damaged, the cost of repairing broken car windows likely won’t exceed your deductible.

Are you looking for the best car insurance companies that cover broken windows? Try our free online quote tool to find affordable insurance that’s right for you.

Case Studies: Auto Insurance Coverage for Broken Windows

Case Study 1: John’s Comprehensive Coverage Saves the Day

John owns a comprehensive auto insurance policy with a $500 deductible. One day, while his car was parked outside, a severe hailstorm occurred, causing his windshield to crack. John filed a claim with his insurance company, providing them with pictures of the damage and the necessary receipts for repairs.

Thanks to his comprehensive coverage, the insurance company covered the cost of replacing the windshield after he paid his deductible.

Case Study 2: Sarah’s Collision Coverage for Side Window Damage

Sarah was involved in a minor collision that resulted in a broken side window. She had collision coverage as part of her auto insurance policy, with a $1,000 deductible. The repair cost for the side window was estimated at $800. Since the repair cost was less than her deductible, Sarah decided to pay for the repair out-of-pocket instead of filing a claim with her insurance company.

Case Study 3: Mike’s Vandalism Claim

Mike parked his car on a busy street overnight, only to wake up and find his rear windshield shattered due to an act of vandalism. Luckily, Mike had comprehensive coverage that protected him from incidents like vandalism. He promptly filed a claim, providing the necessary documentation, and his insurance company covered the cost of replacing the rear windshield after he paid his deductible.