Nothing is more frustrating than getting into your car before an important trip, only to find that a huge crack in your windshield has obstructed your view. Most of the time, chips and cracks in your windshield are the result of flying rocks and debris but, in some cases, they could be caused by stress fractures that are out of your control. So, what are you supposed to do if your windshield is cracked? You could pay out-of-pocket to repair a chipped or cracked windshield. Or, if you have comprehensive auto insurance, you can simply file a claim, and depending on your coverage options, you could get it fixed with no deductible. Keep reading to learn more.
5 Common Reasons Why Windshields Crack
1. Gravel Roads
Driving along a rural road can be a fun way to explore the outdoors, but if you aren’t careful, you could easily be driving home with a damaged windshield. This is because rocks and gravel can easily fly up and hit your windshield when traveling on rural roads. It’s always important to drive at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you on rural roads to avoid chips and cracks in your car’s glass.
2. Construction Vehicles
Following too closely to other vehicles on the road is never a good idea, especially when you end up in the direct path of debris flying off a construction vehicle. It’s easy to see why you need to keep a safe distance. Not only could construction debris possibly crack your windshield, but it could lead to more extensive damage or possible injuries.
3. Poor Quality Glass
If you happened to purchase a windshield that was made with lower quality glass, there’s a good chance you could be facing stress fractures and other damages later down the line. While you may be tempted by the idea to save a few bucks now, purchasing a windshield made from higher quality glass could save you from costly repairs and replacements in the future.
4. Poor Installation
The difference between a properly installed windshield and improperly installed windshield may not be apparent to the naked eye. However, a poorly installed windshield can be a serious safety hazard that may result in cracks. Repositioning or replacing the windshield can correct this common problem.
5. Temperature Changes
Unexpected or extreme temperature fluctuations in upstate New York can cause your windshield glass to crack or even shatter. Most often this can happen in the summer months when the temperatures soar, and drivers decide to visit a car wash with cold water.
Auto Insurance Coverage Options for Windshield Issues
Generally, cracks and chips in your windshield should be covered under the Comprehensive Coverage on your auto insurance policy. As an agency, we will put Full Glass coverage on any personal auto vehicle that has Comprehensive coverage. This means that any glass damage repaired or replaced, will have $0 out of pocket cost to you. On commercial vehicles, generally the Full Glass option is not available, but we do have options to offer you a discounted price to replace the damaged glass. If another person is at fault for your damaged windshield, this type of issue should be covered under their property damage liability insurance.
Contact Skeele Agency Insurance Today
Interested in learning more about your additional auto insurance coverage options? Contact our friendly independent insurance agents online today for more information and be sure to request a free quote.
