Is Windshield Replacement Covered By Insurance in Virginia?

Virginia offers drivers a variety of landscapes like mountain terrains, lush valleys, and more. But, when your windshield suffers damage, it can be much more than a nuisance, it’s dangerous and can put you in precarious situations. Replacing a windshield isn’t cheap, which is why you have insurance. 

So, you want to know if windshield replacement is covered by auto insurance in Virginia. This question doesn't come with one stock answer. It depends on the type of insurance coverage you have. We broke down the different types of insurance below. 

Liability Insurance Coverage

Liability coverage is typically the least expensive, and you can only get it if you own your car fully and aren’t beholden to a bank payment. That said, the reason why liability coverage is so inexpensive is because it doesn’t cover much. Liability insurance only covers damage you cause to other people’s vehicles. But it doesn’t cover any damage to your vehicle. So, if you have liability coverage then we are sorry to inform you that they won’t cover your windshield replacement.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Otherwise known as “full” coverage, comprehensive coverage typically covers damages to other vehicles, and yours. That includes vandalism, theft, and damage to your windshield from any non-collision issues like flying rocks, debris, or severe weather like hail. If you have comprehensive coverage there’s a good chance that windshield replacement will be covered by your policy. 

Of course, you will likely have to meet your deductible. In Virginia, if the damage to your windshield could be repaired, there might be no out-of-pocket cost to you. But, if the damage is severe, and a windshield replacement is necessary you will have to pay the deductible from the claim reimbursement money you receive. It’s worth mentioning that deductibles can vary depending on the policy. 

Optional Auto Glass Insurance

Some insurance providers offer add-on auto glass insurance. There are non deductible options or add-ons with a lower deductible than you have on a comprehensive policy. Of course, you will need to have this add-on insurance before you find the damage on your windshield. But, if you spend a lot of time on the road this add-on insurance might be worth checking out. 

Will My New Vehicle Need a Windshield Calibration?

If your vehicle has any ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) then you do need a windshield calibration. But don’t worry, most insurance providers cover windshield calibration for new windshields on modern vehicles with ADAS technology. 

The manufacturer of your vehicle likely requires a windshield calibration when having it replaced. Cameras and sensors are embedded in or near your windshield, and that technology is what keeps your ADAS working properly. Skipping the windshield calibration could void your manufacturer's warranty. 

How Do I File a Claim in Virginia?

If your windshield is damaged, you can spend your valuable time on the phone with the insurance company or you can contact a local independent auto glass service and they’ll have people there who will be more than happy to help you get your claim through. When you call the insurance company, you may get patched through to a corporate auto glass company, but we recommend finding a small independent auto glass service. 

You can choose the auto glass company that replaces your windshield and a small independent, locally owned auto glass service will offer you a more personalized experience at your convenience. Corporate auto glass companies are too large and less personal. 

Do You Have a Damaged Windshield in Roanoke, VA, or the Surrounding Area?

If you live, work, or are driving through Roanoke, Lynchburg, Salem, Blacksburg, or surrounding areas of Virginia, contact us at Innovation Auto Glass. We have more than a decade of experience providing windshield replacements and repairs. We are a mobile service, which means we come to you, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the side of the road. Contact us for a free quote today!