Windshield damage is often unavoidable — there are always going to be risks while you drive on what oftentimes seem like lawless western roads. Unlike the risks of daily driving, having to pay out of pocket might be avoidable for some Arizona drivers.
Do you have the type of coverage that could make your windshield repair or replacement free? Did you know that this was an option? The information below could save you hundreds of dollars a year with just one phone call to your insurance company. Before it mattered to me, I had no idea that we lived in one of the eight zero deductible states when it comes to windshield replacement.
Through clarification with your insurance company, you could enjoy the added benefit of peace of mind if you need a windshield replacement. You've just got to know the right questions to ask — that's where I come in.
Is YOUR Windshield Covered?
Let me educate you on the ins and outs of getting the best coverage out of your insurance company, including how to navigate obtaining free windshield replacement.
Auto insurance and the laws surrounding it are confusing. Add some optional coverage laws to the picture and it gets worse. In the meantime, you're just trying to get your windshield replaced so you can avoid extra fines should you get pulled over and ticketed.
Arizona's Zero Deductible Full Glass Coverage Law gives any insured driver an option to add the zero-deductible benefit to their plan. This state law is set and woven into insurance laws. As an optional arrangement, windshield replacement coverage comes with some requirements — you must have:
- Current insurance (established and up to date with payments when filing a claim)
- Comprehensive vehicle insurance (not just liability — liability only covers damages you cause to other drivers)
Calling your insurance company and asking about those two things will put you in exactly the right position and possibly get that windshield replaced for free.
Whether you're purchasing a policy that adds windshield coverage for an extra fee, or it's built into your comprehensive plan, you will have access to this option as an Arizona resident.
Pro Tip: If you don't have comprehensive insurance, it's most likely not financially favorable to file a claim, especially if your deductible hasn't been met. Review your pricing options through insurance versus paying out of pocket, then get in touch with us when you're ready to schedule your service.
How Does Free Windshield Replacement Work?
Usually, insurance companies don't recognize windshield damage as damage on a comprehensive policy. Therefore, they do not raise premiums for those who get a windshield replaced — even if it's free.
When you need a windshield replacement, insurance companies actually PREFER that policyholders report the damage as soon as they can. To expedite this process, your insurance website should have an online portal where you can file this claim.
You Choose Your Shop
In Arizona, unless otherwise explicitly specified by your insurance company, you are authorized to get your windshield replaced by the business of your choosing.
While you're free to choose whichever business you want to perform the windshield replacement or repair, it is your responsibility to choose a business that employs technicians certified through the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) or chains that are part of the Independent Glass Association (IGA). Per AAA, the places offering bargain deals are often the same places employing unaccredited technicians installing low-quality glass.
When you're ready to schedule a service, check out our complete guide to windshield replacement in Arizona with tips and steps on how to schedule.
In either case, your claims representative will be able to work with you to determine eligibility for free windshield replacement or repair, then schedule your service. Remember: if you have comprehensive insurance with the no-deductible windshield coverage while residing in Arizona, your windshield replacement or repair could be completely free.
Did You Miss Out on What Your Coverage Offers?
If you're like me and learning about this after you've already replaced your windshield out of pocket, you're not alone. I've navigated this road and am happy to leave some advice behind:
KEEP ALL YOUR RECEIPTS!
It will never hurt to keep proof after any work has been done to your vehicle. In the case of windshield replacement, it's even more important.
Depending on your insurance company, you may be allowed to upload receipts onto a portal or send a fax of your receipts and invoices. Be sure to include your name, policy number, phone number, plus the details of the damage that caused the need for windshield replacement.
Find out beforehand which details your specific company needs and their preferred delivery method.
Pro Tip: You'll thank yourself later should you need to prove anything to your insurance company. It's also helpful if you want to prove the value of your car after years of responsible maintenance.
Whether or not you can avoid this fee, we advise you to check with your insurance company before you schedule a windshield replacement or repair. As the saying goes, it never hurts to ask. In most cases, this isn't something your insurance agent will openly suggest unless they're pushing up-sells. They especially won't mention it if the coverage can be added for little to no extra money per month.
As an Arizona resident who has seen her fair share of windshield replacements and repairs, I'd say that adding this type of coverage gives me a certain peace of mind. You'll definitely thank yourself the next time your windshield needs a replacement. You'll be able to make a claim, schedule your service with a trusted business like Hatch Auto Glass, and have a quality windshield replacement done within a week. Easy!