A cracked or shattered windshield is more than an inconvenience. It can compromise your safety, lead to tickets for unsafe equipment, and even affect your driving privilege. In a state like Florida, where heavy traffic, sudden storms, and flying debris are part of daily life, many drivers face windshield damage sooner or later. If you’re dealing with a chip or crack, you’re probably asking, “Does insurance cover windshield replacement or repair?”
The answer depends on the type of auto insurance you carry and how your policy is structured. Florida law offers unique protections for drivers, but you need to know what they mean for your car insurance policy and how they might affect your car insurance premiums.
Florida Law on Windshield Replacement
Florida is one of the few states with a specific law about windshield repair and replacement. Under Fla. Stat. § 627.7288, any comprehensive coverage policy that includes windshield protection must cover the full cost of repair or replacement without applying a deductible.
If your Florida auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage and your windshield is damaged by something other than a collision, such as a rock, road debris, storm, or vandalism, your insurance company must pay the full cost.
However, this law only applies if you have comprehensive coverage. If your car insurance in Florida only includes minimum coverage or liability-only protection, you’ll likely pay for the repair or replacement out of pocket.
Coverage Types That May Apply
Not all coverage types protect your windshield. Review your Florida car insurance policy to understand what’s included:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision damage like weather events, theft, vandalism, or flying debris. This is the coverage that pays for windshield replacement under Florida law.
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damage caused by accidents, but typically does not include windshield damage from non-collision events.
- Property Damage Liability: Covers damage you cause to other people’s property, not your own vehicle.
- Bodily Injury Liability: Covers injuries to other people when you’re at fault, but doesn’t apply to your vehicle.
If your policy only includes the state’s minimum coverage, which is typically personal injury protection and property damage liability, it will not cover windshield damage.
How to File a Windshield Claim
If you have comprehensive coverage, the claim process is usually straightforward:
- Contact your insurance company. Report the damage and confirm your coverage
- Submit documentation. Provide photos and, if required, a police report.
- Schedule a repair or replacement. Many insurers have preferred providers, but you can often choose your own.
- Keep records. Save receipts and all communication for your records.
Because Florida is a no-fault state, your insurer pays for windshield damage regardless of who caused it, provided your policy covers it.
How Windshield Replacement Affects Your Car Insurance Policy
Filing a windshield claim typically doesn’t increase your Florida car insurance premiums because it’s not considered an at-fault accident. Still, filing multiple small claims within a short period could affect your car insurance rates or future policy renewal.
To stay properly insured and keep your coverage affordable:
- Maintain continuous coverage with your Florida insurance company.
- Ask about multi-policy discounts or rental reimbursement options.
- Review your car insurance policy each year to confirm you have adequate protection.
This approach can help you save money while protecting your vehicle and avoiding a costly reinstatement fee if your policy lapses.
How Comprehensive Coverage Protects You in the Sunshine State
With millions of Florida drivers and frequent severe weather, the Sunshine State is known as one of the most expensive states for auto coverage. Windshield claims are common, and costs can add up quickly. A simple chip repair might cost $100, while replacing a windshield with advanced safety sensors can cost $800 or more.
That’s why many drivers choose more protection than the bare minimum. Comprehensive coverage also helps with:
- Storm, hurricane, or flood damage.
- Vandalism or theft.
- Damage from flying debris or falling objects.
While adding comprehensive coverage can increase your car insurance premium, it often saves money in the long run, especially in a state with a high number of accidents and uninsured drivers.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Auto Insurance
Your car insurance rates depend on several factors:
- Driving record: Good drivers with a clean history often pay less.
- Annual mileage: The more you drive, the greater the risk.
- Vehicle type: A new car or one with advanced technology typically costs more to insure.
- Coverage options: Choosing adequate coverage and liability protection increases premiums but protects your finances.
- Discounts: Multi-policy discounts, safe driver rewards, and continuous coverage can all lower your average annual cost.
Reviewing these factors with your insurance company helps you compare policies and find the best value for your budget.
What If You Don’t Have Comprehensive Coverage?
If your car insurance policy only includes liability coverage, you’ll likely pay for windshield replacement yourself. Some repair shops offer payment plans, while others work directly with insurers if you upgrade your coverage.
If you lease or finance your vehicle, the lender might require comprehensive coverage. And if you’re reviewing your coverage anyway, consider adding rental reimbursement or uninsured motorist coverage for more protection in other scenarios.
Stay Protected with the Right Car Insurance Coverage
Windshield damage is unpredictable, but the right auto insurance can make the difference between a quick repair and a costly out-of-pocket expense. Whether you’re reviewing your Florida policy, adding teen drivers, or exploring ways to save money, talking to a licensed agent can give you personalized options that fit your needs. The Gordon Agency compares policies across multiple top carriers to make sure you get maximum protection at a manageable cost, protecting your vehicle and your finances.
Call (561) 988-3330 or visit our website to review your policy with a licensed Florida insurance agency today.
At The Gordon Agency – We’ve Got You Covered!
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The Gordon Agency Inc.
1825 NW Corporate Blvd, Suite 110
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(561) 988-3330
https://tgafl.com
