One of the most common ways for a windshield to be damaged is for a rock to fly up and smack right into the windshield, leaving a chip or crack behind. While sometimes these rocks are simply on the road or fly out of nowhere, other times, you can see exactly where they are coming from. Trucks carrying gravel or other rock material may have rocks flying directly out of the back of them. If this is what happened that caused the damage to your windshield, you may be wondering if you can hold the company accountable. Here is some information you should know.
When a Company is Accountable
If a rock flies directly from the back of a truck and hits your windshield, the company may be responsible for the damage. They can be found liable if you stayed 100 to 150 feet away from the truck and/or if you can show that the truck was overloaded and carrying more rock or gravel than they should have been. However, it is important to note that if a rock flies out of the truck, hits the road and then bounces up on your car, it is considered road debris. In this case, the trucking company is not responsible, even if you can show the rock came from their truck.
How to Prove Your Claim
While a company can be found liable if a rock hits your windshield after flying from the back of their truck, proving it is a different story. You have to be able to prove that the rock hit your windshield without bouncing on the road and what truck the rock came from. If you have a passenger in the car, obtaining video of the truck may help make your case. If you can see other rocks flying out of the back of the truck, you may be able to show that what you are stating is reasonably true. You may also be able to show that the load was not secured or the truck was overloaded, which can make the company responsible.
What to Do If It Happens to You
If your windshield was damaged, contact the company who owns the truck. Some companies will work with you and reimburse you, even if you can't prove it, while others may not. The bottom line is that it never hurts to ask. And if you have evidence that shows the truck was at fault, be sure to submit it. If they still refuse, despite your evidence, you may have to get your insurance company involved or file a small claims case against the company.
If a rock has flown into your windshield, repairing or replacing the windshield should be a priority. Only 1 Auto Glass in St. Paul, MN. knows that this was not something you were planning on. As such, you may not have much time or money. We offer fair and affordable rates and we also work with insurance companies. And we will make the needed repair or replacement process as quick and easy as possible. Give us a call today to set up an appointment.