Does Progressive Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, Progressive insurance can cover windshield replacement, but whether it does depends on the type of coverage you have and the specific circumstances surrounding the damage.
Understanding Windshield Coverage with Progressive
Windshield damage can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous experience. Knowing what your insurance covers is crucial. Progressive offers different types of coverage that may or may not include windshield repair or replacement. Understanding these options will help you navigate the claims process should you experience windshield damage.
Types of Progressive Insurance Coverage Relevant to Windshield Damage
Progressive offers several types of car insurance coverage, but the most relevant to windshield replacement are:
Comprehensive Coverage: This coverage protects your vehicle from damage caused by events other than collisions, such as vandalism, weather (including hail and wind), falling objects, and animal strikes. Windshield damage often falls under comprehensive coverage.
Collision Coverage: Collision coverage pays for damage to your car if you hit another vehicle or object, or if your car is hit by another vehicle. Windshield damage resulting from a car accident would likely be covered under this policy.
Liability Coverage: Liability coverage only pays for damages you cause to others in an accident. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle, including the windshield.
When Progressive Pays for Windshield Replacement
Progressive will typically cover windshield replacement under the following circumstances:
- You have comprehensive coverage and the damage is caused by a covered peril, such as a rock hitting your windshield on the highway or damage caused by falling tree limbs during a storm.
- You have collision coverage and the damage occurred as a result of a car accident.
- Your state has a zero-deductible windshield law. Some states require insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield repair or replacement if you have comprehensive coverage.
Understanding Your Deductible
Your deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. If your deductible is higher than the cost of the windshield replacement, it might not make sense to file a claim. You can usually find your deductible amount on your insurance policy or by contacting Progressive directly.
The Windshield Replacement Process with Progressive
Here’s a general overview of how to file a windshield replacement claim with Progressive:
- Assess the damage: Determine if the damage is repairable or requires a full replacement. Small chips and cracks can sometimes be repaired.
- Contact Progressive: Report the damage and file a claim. You can do this online, through the Progressive mobile app, or by calling their customer service line.
- Provide information: You will need to provide details about the incident, including the date, time, and location of the damage.
- Choose a repair shop: Progressive may recommend certain auto glass repair shops, but you generally have the right to choose your own.
- Schedule the repair: Contact the chosen shop and schedule an appointment for the repair or replacement.
- Pay your deductible (if applicable): You will be responsible for paying your deductible directly to the repair shop.
- Progressive pays the remainder: Progressive will pay the repair shop directly for the remaining cost of the repair or replacement, up to the policy limits.
Does Filing a Windshield Claim Increase My Premium?
Generally, filing a windshield claim under comprehensive coverage will not increase your premium. This is because windshield damage is often considered a no-fault claim. However, it’s always a good idea to check with Progressive directly to confirm their policy on premium increases.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Windshield Claim
- Delaying the claim: Don’t wait to file your claim. The longer you wait, the more difficult it may be to prove the cause of the damage.
- Not understanding your coverage: Review your policy to understand your coverage limits and deductibles.
- Ignoring small chips: Small chips can quickly turn into larger cracks, so it’s important to address them promptly.
- Choosing an unqualified repair shop: Select a reputable and qualified auto glass repair shop to ensure the repair is done correctly.
The Benefit of Using Progressive’s Network Repair Shops
Progressive has a network of preferred auto glass repair shops. Using one of these shops can often streamline the claims process, as they may work directly with Progressive to handle the paperwork and billing. While you are not required to use a network shop, it can offer added convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
H4: What if the crack in my windshield is small? Should I still file a claim?
Even small chips and cracks can compromise the structural integrity of your windshield and can spread over time, especially with temperature fluctuations. While a repair might be enough for smaller damage, it’s important to consult with a professional. Filing a claim, especially if you have a zero-deductible windshield policy, could save you from a larger, more costly replacement later on.
H4: Can I choose any auto glass repair shop, or do I have to use one Progressive recommends?
Generally, you have the right to choose your own auto glass repair shop, even if Progressive recommends specific vendors. However, using a shop within their network may expedite the process and ensure direct billing to Progressive. Regardless, it’s always best to research and select a qualified and reputable shop for the repair or replacement.
H4: My windshield was damaged by a rock thrown up by another vehicle. Do I need to file a police report?
Whether or not you need to file a police report depends on your specific situation and state laws. If you can identify the other vehicle and obtain their insurance information, you may be able to file a claim against their liability coverage. However, if the other vehicle is unknown, filing a comprehensive claim with Progressive is likely the best course of action, and a police report may not be required in many cases, but it’s always good to document everything carefully.
H4: What if my windshield damage is due to vandalism?
If your windshield damage is due to vandalism, it would be covered under your comprehensive coverage. You will need to file a police report and provide the report number to Progressive when filing your claim. This is crucial for processing the claim effectively.
H4: I only have liability coverage. Am I covered for windshield replacement?
No, liability coverage only pays for damages you cause to others in an accident. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle, including the windshield. You would need comprehensive or collision coverage to be covered for windshield replacement.
H4: What is a “zero-deductible windshield law,” and does my state have one?
A zero-deductible windshield law mandates that insurance companies waive the deductible for windshield repair or replacement under comprehensive coverage. Whether your state has this law varies. You can check with your state’s Department of Insurance or consult your Progressive policy for clarification.
H4: How long do I have to file a windshield claim with Progressive?
While there is no strict deadline, it is best to file a claim as soon as possible after the damage occurs. Delaying the claim can make it more difficult to prove the cause of the damage and may raise questions from Progressive. Check your policy language for specific time constraints.
H4: What happens if the auto glass repair shop finds more damage during the replacement?
If the auto glass repair shop discovers additional damage to your vehicle during the windshield replacement (such as rust or frame damage), they will typically contact Progressive for approval before proceeding with the additional repairs. This ensures that the repairs are covered under your policy and prevents unexpected costs.
H4: Will Progressive replace my windshield with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) windshield?
Whether Progressive will replace your windshield with an OEM windshield depends on your policy terms and state laws. Some policies may allow for aftermarket windshields, which are generally less expensive than OEM windshields. You can check your policy or contact Progressive to confirm their policy on OEM windshield replacements.
H4: How can I prevent windshield damage in the future?
While you cannot completely prevent windshield damage, you can take steps to minimize the risk. These include: avoiding driving too closely behind other vehicles, especially on gravel roads; parking in covered areas during storms; and promptly repairing small chips and cracks before they spread.
H4: What documentation do I need to file a windshield claim with Progressive?
Typically, you will need to provide your policy number, driver’s license information, and details about the incident, including the date, time, and location of the damage. If the damage was caused by vandalism, you will also need to provide a police report. Take clear pictures of the damage.
H4: Can Progressive deny my windshield replacement claim?
Progressive can deny your windshield replacement claim if the damage is not covered under your policy (e.g., you only have liability coverage) or if there is evidence of fraudulent activity. They may also deny the claim if you waited an unreasonable amount of time to report the damage, making it difficult to verify the cause. Always provide accurate and complete information when filing your claim.