Does Auto Insurance Cover Auto Glass Repair And Replacement?
Auto Glass and Windshield Safety: Essential Information for Birmingham, Alabama
Your vehicle features glass all around, with the windshield being one of its most crucial safety components. It shields you from high-speed winds and road debris. If your windshield or any other auto glass gets damaged, your insurance might cover the repair costs. Our Auto Glass Pros team in Birmingham, Alabama, can assist you through the auto glass repair insurance claim process.
Types of Auto Glass
Your vehicle’s glass consists of two main types: tempered and laminated.
- Tempered Glass: This chemically treated and heated glass is typically used for side windows. It’s strengthened through a process of heating and rapid cooling, making it up to five times stronger than standard glass. When it breaks, it shatters into small, safe pieces.
- Laminated Glass: Used for windshields, this glass has multiple layers with a plastic or PVB layer in between. It doesn’t shatter on impact; instead, the broken pieces stick to the plastic layer, reducing injury risks during high-impact crashes. Laminated glass also provides soundproofing and is highly durable, though more expensive.
Importance of Windshield Maintenance
Maintaining your windshield and other auto glass is vital for safety. Some states prohibit driving with a broken or cracked windshield. While Birmingham, AL allows driving with a cracked windshield, obstructed views are illegal.
Windshield Features
Modern windshields often come with additional safety features, such as cameras that can trigger sudden stops if you get too close to another vehicle, lane-keeping sensors, and automatic rain-activated wipers.
Repairing and Replacing Auto Glass
Repairs:
- Cracks and Chips: Small cracks and chips can be fixed by injecting a transparent resin, preventing further damage. However, if the damage obstructs your view or is on the windshield’s edges, replacement is necessary.
Replacement:
- The process involves carefully removing the damaged windshield, cleaning the edges, applying a new adhesive sealant, and placing the new windshield using special tools. Post-installation, vehicles with advanced features may require calibration.
Insurance Coverage
Most comprehensive auto insurance policies cover auto glass repairs and replacements. Collision policies might also cover the damage, subject to deductibles. Some insurers offer specific auto glass policies, reducing or eliminating deductibles. If another driver is at fault, their liability insurance could cover the costs.
Auto Glass Services in Birmingham, AL
Auto Glass Pros provides 100% guaranteed, free mobile service for auto glass repair and replacement in the Birmingham metro area. Contact us for quick, affordable, and quality service. We also assist with insurance claims for your convenience.