You’ve probably experienced windshield damage in Florida at least once. Anyone can get windshield damage, whether it is from road debris, sudden thunderstorms, or even golf balls. Florida’s laws on car insurance can help you save time and money.
This guide will explain everything you need about Florida auto insurance windshield replacement. From the laws protecting you to how to avoid unnecessary damages, you’ll learn it all. We will also discuss how to make a claim, and how it may affect your insurance rates. Let’s get started!
Understanding Florida Car Insurance Windshield Replacement Law
Florida stands out for windshield replacements due to its unique laws designed to assist drivers. In Florida, according to Statute 627.7288, your insurer must repair or replace your windshield if you own a comprehensive insurance policy. Lawmakers passed this law to encourage drivers with damaged windshields to repair them as soon as possible.
Key aspects of Florida’s Windshield Replacement Law:
- No out-of-pocket cost: If you have comprehensive coverage, you won’t need to pay any upfront cost.
- Safety-focused law: This law promotes safe driving through affordable and easy windshield repairs.
- Applies to comprehensive coverage only: This law only applies to comprehensive insurance. If you have only liability coverage, you will have to pay the cost of replacement.
This law clearly shows Florida’s commitment to keeping its drivers safe. Clear, undamaged glass is crucial for safe driving. The state wants to make sure that people don’t delay needed repairs because of financial concerns.
What Does Florida Car Insurance Windshield Replacement Cover?
You might wonder what type of windshield damage Florida auto insurance covers. The answer depends on whether or not you have comprehensive insurance. Comprehensive insurance covers more than just collisions. It also includes a wide range of damages that are not related to accidents.
Types of damage covered under comprehensive insurance:
- Cracks and chips from road debris: Florida auto insurance covers cracks and chips caused by road debris.
- Damage from weather even: Florida is well-known for its hurricanes and storms that can cause damage to windshields.
- Vandalism: Comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield if someone damages it.
- Falling Objects: This includes branches, trees, and other objects that fall onto the windshield of your vehicle.
Florida law requires that you repair or replace windshield damage from these incidents without paying a deductible. This law only applies to the windshield. If you damage your side windows or rear glass, you will need to pay for their replacement.
How to File a Florida Car Insurance Windshield Replacement Claim
In Florida, filing a claim to repair a broken windshield is an easy process. It’s crucial to take the correct steps in order to have a hassle-free and smooth experience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Windshield Replacement Claim:
- Assess damage: Before you call your insurance company, have a look at your windshield. Notify the size and position of any chips or cracks.
- Call your insurance provider. Tell them about the damage, and confirm you have comprehensive insurance coverage. This will qualify you for the free replacement.
- Choose an authorized repair shop: Many insurance companies provide a list of authorized auto glass repair shops. If you prefer, you can choose your own shop. Just ensure your insurer approves them.
- Schedule the repair or replacement: Schedule an appointment at the repair shop once your claim gets approved. Mobile service is available from many places.
- Verify the replacement is covered: Double-check that your insurance covers the entire cost of replacement before the repair begins. This way, there won’t be any surprises.
Follow these steps to ensure your Florida auto insurance windshield replacement goes smoothly.
Does a Florida Car Insurance Windshield Replacement Affect Premiums?
Many drivers are concerned about whether or not filing a claim to replace a windshield will increase their insurance rates. In most cases, filing a claim for a windshield replacement will not increase your insurance premiums.
Why doesn’t it affect premiums?
- Non-fault claim: Damage to the windshield is usually considered a “non-fault” claim. This means that you are not at fault for this damage. Your premiums will usually not change because you did not cause the accident.
- Comprehensive claims: Windshields are covered under comprehensive coverage. This is meant to cover things that you cannot control such as bad weather and road debris.
Although it’s a good idea for you to check with your insurer, in general, replacing your Florida windshield shouldn’t result in higher insurance premiums.
Why Comprehensive Insurance is Essential for Windshield Replacement in Florida
Florida’s law on windshield replacement requires comprehensive insurance. You would be liable for the entire cost of repair or replacement if you do not have comprehensive insurance.
Why you need comprehensive insurance:
- Covers a wide range of damages: Comprehensive insurance is more than collision coverage. It covers a variety of damages, from falling objects to weather-related damage.
- No deductible on windshields: Florida law allows comprehensive insurance to replace your windshield at no charge to you.
- Peace Of Mind: You will have the confidence that, if anything happens to your windscreen, it won’t drain you of your money.
Consider upgrading your insurance to comprehensive coverage if you reside in Florida. It is worth it just to save on the cost of windshield repair.
Preventing Windshield Damage: Tips for Florida Drivers
It’s nice to know that you can get a free replacement for your windshield, but preventing damage is the best way to go. Here are some tips to help Florida drivers keep their windshields clean:
Tips to Avoid Windshield Damage:
- Keep a safe distance from vehicles and trucks that may throw up debris or rocks.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes: Sudden temperature swings can crack windshields. Avoid blasting the air conditioner directly on a hot window.
- Park in safe spots: Do not park under trees that can fall branches and other debris on your windshield when storms occur.
- Fix small chips early: If you ignore a small chip, it can quickly grow into a larger crack. As soon as you see a chip, have it repaired.
Follow these simple tips to reduce the chances of having to replace your windshield and keep insurance claims at a minimum.
Common Myths About Florida Car Insurance Windshield Replacement
To avoid confusion, it is important to separate the truth from the fiction when it comes to windshield replacements in Florida.
Debunking Common Myths:
Myth: You can replace your windscreen only once per year: There is no restriction on how many times you can change your windshield. Your insurance will cover the cost if it is damaged.
Myth: you must use the repair shop of your insurance company: Although many insurance companies suggest certain repair shops, it is up to you to select any authorized shop.
Myth: If you have comprehensive insurance, Florida law says that any windshield repair or replacement must be free of deductible.
Understanding these myths will help you avoid unnecessary stress and make informed decisions.
Choosing the Right Auto Glass Repair Shop in Florida
Not all auto glass repair shops are the same.Choosing the right auto glass repair shop greatly improves the quality of your replacement windshield and makes installation easier.
How to Choose an Auto Glass Repair Shop:
- Look for insurance approval: To avoid any complications, ensure your insurer has approved the shop.
- Check reviews and ratings: Check online reviews to get an idea of the reputation and quality of the store.
- Ask about warranties: A reputable shop will provide a guarantee on its work. This ensures that you are protected in the event of a problem.
If you are looking for a reliable service to repair auto glass in Florida, At Home Auto Glass offers high-quality, convenient repairs. Even better, they offer mobile service so that they can come directly to you.
Florida’s windshield replacement law is a great benefit to drivers. You won’t be required to pay for repairs if you have comprehensive insurance. Staying informed is important, whether you are filing a claim for damage or trying to prevent it.
Call At Home Auto Glass if you need a windshield replacement or repair. They will make sure that the process is quick and hassle-free, so you can get back on your way safely.
