Envision this: You are driving down the road when a large rock smashes right into your windshield. When this occurs, you will likely need to have your windshield replaced.
As you look to get the windshield replacement done, you may notice some repair shops state that they will waive your insurance deductible if you use them. This may leave you wondering what this means and if it is beneficial to you.
Here is some information you need to know.
What Does It Mean if an Insurance Company Will ‘Waive Your Deductible?’
If your windshield needs to be replaced, your insurance will generally cover the cost of the replacement if the repair is needed due to an accident. An accident is considered a collision or something hitting your windshield while you are driving, such as a rock. It can also be caused by someone smashing your windshield on purpose.
In order for your insurance to pay for the repair, you will need to pay your insurance deductible. If a company states that they waive your deductible, you will no longer need to pay your insurance deductible.
How Can Some Windshield Repair Companies Do This?
There are a couple of different reasons why a windshield repair company may be able to waive your deductible.
First, they may charge a bit more than other companies that don't waive deductibles to make up the cost of your deductible.
Secondly, they may see such an increase in business from waiving deductibles that the increased volume makes up for waiving deductibles.
What Do I Need To Know if I Want To Use a Company That Waives Deductibles?
If you are considering using a windshield repair company that waives deductibles, always compare their price quote to the other companies that don't waive deductibles. This will help you know if the price they are charging is fair. Second, always check to see if there is a limit to the deductible amount they will waive.
Some companies may only waive up to $250 or $500 in deductibles, while others may waive up to $1,000. Finding this out helps to ensure you weren't paying part of a deductible when you thought the entire thing would be waived.
How Does Filing an Auto Glass Claim Affect Your Insurance?
Your auto insurance is in place to cover damage to your vehicle. Even with auto glass replacement or repair, if you choose to file a claim, it can increase your rates because now the provider may see you as a greater risk.
Before you file, it's always recommended to contact the company about how they handle the insurance claims and check to see what coverages you have in place, including any deductibles that need to be paid.
If someone else caused the damage, you have accident forgiveness on your policy, or you're just dealing with smaller cracks and chips, it may be wiser to pay out of pocket than to risk raising your premium. Start by contacting your provider, then get at least three service estimates to compare products and pricing and schedule the repair.
You can also contact one of our team members, and we can help advocate for you if you need support navigating the insurance claim process.
Only 1 Auto Glass: Your Twin Cities Auto Glass Experts
Do you have a giant crack in your windshield? Does it need to be replaced? If so, contact Only 1 Auto Glass for all of your glass needs in the St. Paul, MN area.
You can reach us online or give our office a call at 651-789-1111. We would love to assist you and get you back on the road today.