A cracked windshield can occur even without any type of traffic accident. In fact, many cracked windshields happen from a piece of debris, such as a pebble, hitting the glass at high speed. This is a common occurrence, and people often wonder if their insurance policy will cover the replacement. In most cases, however, a cracked windshield is only covered with optional coverage purchased outside of the Florida minimum insurance coverages.
Florida minimum coverage includes property damage, bodily injury, and uninsured driver coverage. Anything other coverage, such as collision, fire and theft, are extras options that will add to the cost of your policy.
Is it Legal to Drive With a Cracked Windshield?
Sarasota and Bradenton laws do not specifically forbid driving with a cracked or damaged windshield. However, drivers are not allowed to have any stickers or devices which obstruct their view; and a police officer may use his discretion to determine that a cracked windshield is unsafe as it blocks your clear view of the road. In addition, all vehicles must have functioning windshield wipers. If your damaged windshield interferes with the prop3er operation of your windshield wipers, you can receive a ticket and a fine.
How to Handle a Cracked Windshield
You should check with your auto insurance provider regarding glass coverage, as many people may have glass coverage rolled into their collision premium. If not, you may be able to obtain glass coverage in addition to your individual car insurance policy. This type of coverage is usually fairly affordable and may be a good rider to have if you do a lot of highway driving with trucks. It is recommended that you cover all the glass in your car, not just the windshield.
Comprehensive coverage is not required to drive a car in Florida, but if you do have a comprehensive policy, it will likely cover windshield cracks. However, you may wish to check the deductible, as it may be cheaper to replace the glass on your own, depending on the damage. Because modern methods have made it possible to repair a small chip or crack with high heat and pressure, you may not have to replace the entire piece of glass. Because these repairs are generally guaranteed for the life of your windshield, they can be an affordable option for repair. Ask your insurance company if they cover these repairs.
However, some insurance companies may not cover these repairs. This is because they may doubt the safety of such a repair, and be worried about the glass breaking more easily in the future and injuring someone.
What if You Have No Glass Coverage?
If you have no glass coverage in your auto insurance policy, you will need to pay for repairs or replacement out of pocket. You can choose to install a brand-new windshield from the factory, or installing a used windshield from a local parts depot. Salvage windshields are less expensive and most repair shops are willing to install them for you. While salvage windshields are generally reliable, you may be taking a minimal risk regarding quality.
Given the low cost of adding glass coverage to most policies, it is recommended that all drivers add a glass coverage rider to their coverage. If you have further questions, call the professionals at Anderson & Associates Insurance Group. We can help you to get the coverage you need at a premium which makes sense for you.
