Does car insurance cover rock chips when I have comprehensive coverage?
Comprehensive coverage is generally your only option when it comes to repairing rock chips in your windshield. Signing up for comprehensive coverage means you may be paying more each month than for basic coverage. However, you’re paying for coverage that protects against additional types of damaging situations that are out of your control. If something like a rock hits your car windshield, you can rest easy knowing that you don’t have to pay for those repairs out of pocket, unless you have a deductible.
If your windshield has been damaged due to a flying rock, the first thing you should do is to determine if it needs to be repaired or if the windshield needs to be completely replaced. Measuring the crack can help you determine how to best fix the damage. A good rule of thumb is that cracks that are less than six inches in length can be repaired, while any larger should result in a window replacement.
Filing a Claim
If you experience any of these situations, your first step should be to file a claim with your insurance company, if you have the right coverage.
Basic coverage, such as liability and collision, only covers damage caused by car accidents rather than incidental damage that is out of your control, like rock chips. If you have only your state minimum’s, you usually can’t claim the damage, and your insurance company does not reimburse you for any windshield repairs you need.
Windshield chips and cracks can come from falling debris, storm damage, or a flying baseball in your neighborhood.
For peace of mind in situations like this, you want to be financially prepared to cover the damages done. Learn how much car insurance coverage you need to best protect you and your assets by getting a personalized recommendation based on your needs.