When dealing with a cracked windshield, auto insurance can play a crucial role in the repair or replacement process. Whether it’s a small chip or a large crack, it’s important to take action as soon as possible to avoid further damage or even a potential accident.
Depending on your insurance coverage, your windshield repair or replacement may be fully or partially covered, so it’s important to review your policy and know your options. Additionally, it’s important to find a reputable repair or replacement shop that can properly assess and fix your windshield. By taking these steps and ensuring you have cheap auto insurance coverage, you can keep yourself and your passengers safe while driving while also saving money.
What Is a Windshield Crack
A windshield crack is a break or fissure in the glass of a vehicle’s windshield. These cracks can range in size from a small chip to a large crack spanning the entire length of the windshield. Windshield cracks can occur for a variety of reasons, including weather-related damage, road debris, and accidents. Even a small crack can compromise the structural integrity of the windshield and increase the risk of further damage or injury in the event of an accident.
Comprehensive insurance is a type of auto insurance that provides coverage for damage or loss to a vehicle caused by a variety of factors, including windshield cracks. Many of Freeway Insurance’s policies offer comprehensive coverage, which includes coverage for damage caused by weather, theft, and vandalism, as well as collision coverage for accidents. It’s important for drivers to check the terms of their policy to see what kind of coverage is included for windshield cracks, as some policies may have exclusions or limitations. Drivers should also be aware that in some cases, the cost of repairing or replacing a windshield may be less than the deductible on their insurance policy, and they may need to pay for the repair out of pocket.
What Causes Windshield Cracks and Crack Types
Windshield cracks can be caused by a variety of factors, with the most common being impacts from flying debris or rocks on the road. When a vehicle is traveling at high speeds, even small objects like stones or pebbles can strike the windshield with enough force to cause a crack. Changes in temperature can also lead to cracks in the windshield. When the temperature outside drops suddenly, the glass may contract, putting stress on the edges and causing cracks to form. Similarly, when the temperature rises suddenly, the glass may expand, which can also cause cracking. Additionally, windshields that have already been weakened by previous damage or manufacturing defects are more prone to cracking.
Another cause of windshield cracks is improper installation or poor-quality materials. If a windshield is not installed correctly, it may not be able to withstand the stress of normal driving, leading to cracks or even complete failure. Similarly, windshields made from low-quality materials may be more likely to crack or shatter, especially under extreme conditions like temperature changes or impacts from debris. Regular maintenance of your windshield, including checking for cracks and chips, can help prevent further damage and ensure that your windshield remains strong and reliable.
Bull’s Eye
Bull’s eye windshield cracks are a common type of damage that can occur on a vehicle’s windshield. These cracks are typically caused by small rocks or debris that hit the windshield while driving, and they are characterized by a circular or semi-circular shape with a cone-shaped chip at the center. If left unaddressed, bull’s eye cracks can spread and cause further damage to the windshield, potentially compromising the safety of the driver and passengers. It is important to have these cracks repaired as soon as possible by a professional to prevent further damage and ensure the structural integrity of the windshield.
Star Break
Star break windshield cracks are a common type of damage that occurs on car windshields, typically caused by a small object striking the glass at high velocity. They appear as a small, circular or star-shaped crack in the glass, with radiating cracks extending outwards. If left untreated, star break windshield cracks can grow larger and eventually compromise the structural integrity of the windshield, making it unsafe to drive. Therefore, it’s important to have these types of cracks repaired as soon as possible by a professional auto glass technician to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the vehicle’s occupants.
Half-Moon
Half-moon windshield cracks are a common type of damage that can occur to a vehicle’s windshield. These cracks are typically caused by a sudden impact to the windshield, such as a rock or other debris hitting the glass. Half-moon cracks are named for their appearance, which resembles a half-circle or crescent shape. While they may seem like a minor issue, it’s important to address half-moon cracks promptly as they can quickly spread and compromise the integrity of the windshield, leading to reduced visibility and potential safety hazards on the road. Depending on the severity of the damage, repair or replacement of the windshield may be necessary.
Dangers of Driving With a Cracked Windshield
Driving with a cracked windshield can be extremely dangerous for both the driver and passengers. A cracked windshield can impair the driver’s vision, especially in bright sunlight or oncoming headlights, which can lead to accidents. The crack can also weaken the structural integrity of the windshield, making it more susceptible to shattering in the event of an accident, which can cause serious injuries. Additionally, a cracked windshield can hinder the effectiveness of airbags, as they rely on the windshield to provide support during deployment. It is essential to get a cracked windshield repaired or replaced as soon as possible to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Reduced Visibility
Reduced visibility is one of the biggest dangers of driving with a cracked windshield. A cracked windshield can obstruct the driver’s view of the road, making it difficult to see pedestrians, other vehicles, and obstacles. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog. Additionally, a cracked windshield can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, making it more vulnerable to further damage in the event of an accident. It is important to address any cracks in the windshield promptly and have them repaired or replaced to ensure safe driving conditions.
Increased Risk of Injury During Accidents
Driving with a cracked windshield can increase the risk of injury during accidents, and it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. A cracked windshield can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, making it more vulnerable to damage and increasing the likelihood of the windshield shattering upon impact. In addition, a cracked windshield can obstruct the driver’s vision, causing them to miss important cues and potentially leading to accidents. Therefore, it is essential to have any cracks or chips in your windshield repaired promptly to ensure your safety and that of your passengers.
How Freeway Insurance Covers Windshield Cracks
Freeway Insurance offers coverage for windshield cracks through their comprehensive coverage option. This coverage is designed to protect policyholders against unexpected events, such as a cracked or shattered windshield. Depending on the policy, the coverage may include repairs or replacements for windshield damage caused by rocks, debris, and other unforeseen events.
To take advantage of this coverage, policyholders need to file a claim with Freeway Insurance and provide details about the incident that caused the damage. Once the claim is approved, Freeway Insurance will work with a network of certified repair shops to fix the windshield or replace it entirely, depending on the extent of the damage. In some cases, policyholders may need to pay a deductible before the coverage kicks in, but this can vary depending on the policy terms and conditions. Overall, Freeway Insurance’s comprehensive coverage option provides peace of mind for drivers who want to protect their vehicles from unexpected events, including windshield cracks.
Get Windshield Repair Coverage with Freeway Insurance
Did you know that Freeway Insurance offers a windshield repair plan? Call today 800-777-5620 and talk to an agent to add it to your current car insurance plan or come to any of our offices for a personalized experience!
