Debris or pebbles hitting the windscreen is common. But ignoring it because it is a small crack and harmless is not a good idea. That small chip can grow into a crack and affect the visibility of the road while driving. Sounds dangerous? So, getting it fixed should be your top priority. But if you are concerned about shelling out money on its repair because insurance may not cover it, then there is good news. Comprehensive car insurance covers windshield damage, whether it needs repair or replacement. But the damage will not be covered if you have only third-party car insurance. Let’s learn more about car insurance coverage for windshield damage and what types of damages are covered.
What is Car Insurance?
Despite taking all precautions, unforeseen events, such as accidents, theft, fire, and natural or man-made calamities, can cause damage to your car. If the damage is severe, it can cost you dearly. In such situations, car insurance can help relieve you from financial worries. Car insurance is a type of insurance policy that financially protects you and your car against any such unforeseen circumstances.
Types of Car Insurance
In India, there are mainly three types of car insurance –
- Third-party liability insurance: This is the basic cover which is mandatory in India. Third-party insurance protects you only against third-party liabilities, i.e., any damage caused to a third-party vehicle or property will be covered by insurance. If a third party person sustains injuries, the treatment costs will also be borne by insurance.
- Standalone Own Damage: This type of insurance protects your own vehicle against any damage due to accident, theft, fire, and natural or man-made calamities.
- Comprehensive car insurance: This is recommended by experts because it provides comprehensive protection to your car. It includes both third-party liability insurance and own damage insurance. Be it accidental damage or damage due to theft, fire, floods, earthquakes, riots, or vandalism, comprehensive car insurance will compensate for the loss. With comprehensive insurance, you can further enhance the coverage with add-ons, such as zero depreciation cover, roadside assistance, engine and gear protection, etc.
Does car insurance cover windshield damage?
Any damage to the windshield, whether a small crack or a big one, must be fixed immediately. Yes, car insurance does cover windshield damage, but only if you have purchased comprehensive car insurance. With comprehensive car insurance, the repair or replacement costs will be covered by insurance, but your deductible will apply. The deductible is the amount you must pay from your pocket before insurance coverage kicks in. Depending upon the extent of damage, the technician will assess whether the windshield will be repaired or replaced. However, if you have taken only third-party liability insurance, any damage to your own car will not be covered.
There are situations when your car gets accidentally hit by a third-party vehicle, and the windshield gets damaged. Even if you don’t have comprehensive car insurance, you can file a claim with the vehicle owner’s third-party insurance. If the claim is valid, the repair or replacement of the windshield will be covered by third-party insurance of the other vehicle owner.
What Type of Windshield Damage is Covered by Car Insurance?
Some common types of windshield damage covered by car insurance are –
- Debris or small rocks from the road which can cause cracks or chips
- Damage due to natural calamities like storms, hails, or hurricanes
- Collision with animals
- Theft or vandalism
- Collision with another object, such as a tree or vehicle
- Objects falling off trucks
- Damage due to a tree or branch falling on your car
- When heavy objects like coconuts or plant pots fall on the windscreen causing damage
How to File a Claim for Windshield Damage?
Here are the steps to file a claim for windshield damage –
Step 1: Notify your insurance company via toll-free number, email, or by visiting the branch to initiate the claims process. You can also do it through their website or car insurance app.
Step 2: If the damage is due to vandalism, you need to file an FIR at the nearest police station and then raise the claim.
Step 3: Provide evidence supporting the claim and any other documents as required by the insurer.
Step 4: Take your car to an authorised garage. The technician will assess the damage and send it to the insurer for approval.
Step 4: After it gets approved, the repair or replacement work will begin.
Step 5: If you want cashless insurance, look for a network garage. If you don’t get the repairs done in a network garage, you have to pay for the repairs and file a reimbursement claim.
Conclusion
Before buying car insurance, it is essential to understand the inclusions and exclusions of the policy to make the right choice. You can compare multiple plans, get quotes using a car insurance premium calculator, and pick the one that meets your specific requirements.
