Windshield damage is a constant concern for car owners. A chipped or cracked windshield not only causes financial stress for maintenance but also significantly threatens your driving experience and security, obstructing your view.
Regardless of the make and model of your vehicle, the repair and replacement expenses of windshield damages often result in a hefty financial burden, which can be managed with car insurance.
But is windshield covered in insurance? Let’s find out.
Is the Car Windshield Covered by Insurance?
When it comes to windshield damages, your own damage and comprehensive car insurance policies allow you to protect your car from any loss or damage, with extensive plans even extending coverage for windshield damages.
However, third-party insurance will not cover them as it is limited to coverage for any loss or damage to a third party or their property.
Therefore, choosing the right plan by carefully selecting the different
types of car insurance coverages you require is crucial.
Type Of Windshield Damages Covered Under a Comprehensive Policy
As discussed above, out of all the types of car insurance policies available, only a comprehensive car insurance policy might protect you from the financial burden of windshield damages.
In addition, a comprehensive car insurance policy covers damages related to accidents, theft, fire, explosion, natural calamities and third-party liabilities.
Thus, in any case, if your car's windshield has been broken due to a manmade event or a natural calamity, you have the right to file a claim.
Here is all that is covered under comprehensive car insurance for windshield damages -
Falling of trees on the glass as part of windshield glass cover insurance
Falling of coconut or any other heavy object on the windshield
Stone and debris hitting the windshield
A collision of birds or animals on the windshield
Accident, vandalism, fire or any other man-made events
Natural calamities like thunderstorms, floods, earthquakes, hailstorms
Theft - In case the car is damaged due to theft or vandalism, an FIR has to be filed first at the nearest police station, after which the claim can be processed
Process to File Windshield Insurance Claim
Car insurance and windshield replacement or repair expenses go hand in hand, and without an insurance cover, these requirements can be a costly affair.
Thus, to file a claim for any windshield damage under a
comprehensive car insurance plan, you must follow the steps mentioned below.
Step-By-Step Process to File a Windshield Insurance Claim
Step 1 - Notify Us
The first step is to register your claim with us. You can do so by either calling our paid helpline number, 022-4890-3009, or via our Reliance Self-i App.
Step 2 - Collect and Submit Documents and Damage Evidence
For the next step, you must collect relevant evidence of the damage incurred by your windshield. In case of theft, you will also need to file a First Information Report and submit the proof of the same along with other documents such as a vehicle registration certificate, insurance policy document, driving licence, etc.
Step 3- Choose a Claim Procedure
After submitting the necessary documents, you must choose between a cashless claim and a reimbursement claim.
Cashless Claim - Under this type of claim, you can choose a network garage and proceed with a claim without having to worry about the repair expenses. This is because we pay the garage directly once the work is completed for a network garage.
- Reimbursement Claim - If you want to continue with a non-network garage, a reimbursement claim will be required. You must pay the upfront expenses for the repair work. Then, upon submission of the bills, we will reimburse you for the claimable amount in your bank account.
<h4> Step 4- Claim Settlement </h4>
For the final step, based on your chosen claim method, we will either pay the network garage on your behalf or reimburse you for the maximum claim settlement amount applicable to you as per your policy terms and conditions.
Tips to Reduce Your Insurance Windshield Replacement Costs
Review your policy carefully to understand the scope of coverage for windshield damages, the eligibility and other specific terms and conditions.
Check for the type of repairs required for your windshield, before proceeding with a windshield insurance claim, as minor claims might impact the No Claim Bonus.
Opt for a favourable deductible that does not exceed your financial capacity but ensures lower premiums for your car insurance policy.
Compare different car insurance policies to choose a plan that offers ample coverage for your specific requirements without exceeding your budget.
Conclusion
A damaged windshield makes driving a car inconvenient and risky. Hence, you must ensure urgent repair for even a small crack in your windshield.
Thus, for maximum support, you must insure your car with comprehensive car insurance for extensive benefits. Moreover, now that you know the answer to the debatable question, “Is windshield covered in insurance?” is yes, you no longer need to stress about the financial burden of fixing any windshield damage.
Reliance General Insurance offers a wide range of
car insurance policies to ensure there is something for every car owner. From third-party and own-damage car insurance to pay-as-you-drive, commercial, and long-term car insurance plans, you have various options to choose from to secure your car and drive around the country with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine windshield damage coverage with third-party car insurance?
No, windshield damage coverage cannot be combined with third-party car insurance, as this type of policy only covers third-party liabilities.
f you wish to avail of windshield coverage, you must invest in a comprehensive car insurance plan. This will allow you to get the necessary coverage along with extensive coverage for third-party damage or loss and own damages.
How can I ensure proper maintenance of my windshield?
Maintain proper distance between your car and the car ahead of your vehicle to reduce the risk of rock chips, especially on highways.
Always park your vehicle in covered areas and spots to avoid the risk of damage due to extreme weather conditions and sudden falling of objects.
Instal different safety features in your vehicle to avoid the possibility of theft.
Clean your car windshield with a glass cleaner from time to time to avoid small scratches and any hindrance to visibility.
