What Louisiana Drivers Need to Know About Insurance Coverage and Their Windshield

The windshield on your vehicle plays a crucial role in your safety in many ways. The windshield offers visibility and contributes to the structural integrity of your car. Louisiana drivers might wonder whether or not their insurance will cover damage to their windshield. What options do you have? 

In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about windshield damage and insurance coverage in Louisiana. After reading this you’ll be able to make an informed decision. 

Types of Insurance Coverage

Not all insurance policies are the same. In Louisiana, like many other states, drivers have options when it comes to the types of coverage they can purchase for their vehicle. Each of them is different when it comes to windshield repair. 

Comprehensive Coverage: Most people have comprehensive coverage, often known as “full” coverage. Many lenders require comprehensive insurance to move forward with financing a vehicle. This type of coverage typically covers repairs or replacements due to non-collision-related incidents. Unfortunate instances like vandalism, theft, or natural disasters that cause windshield damage will likely be covered, as well as falling branches and damage caused by rocks being kicked up on the road. You will likely have to meet your deductible.

Collision Coverage: Overall, collision coverage is designed to help if you have an accident where you collide with another vehicle or object. But this coverage typically covers windshield damage from collisions as well. If an accident causes damage to your windshield, collision coverage may help mitigate the costs. You will also have to meet your deductible in most cases with collision coverage. 

Liability Coverage: This type of coverage won’t help with the cost of repairing or replacing your windshield because liability only covers damage you may cause to other vehicles or property. 

What About Deductibles?

A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket and then your coverage kicks in. Some comprehensive policies come with a zero deductible for windshield repairs, which means there would be no out-of-pocket cost to you. But you have to check your policy to find out what is specific to your situation. 

If you do need a replacement the insurance company will likely cover the remainder of the cost after you’ve met your deductible. It’s worth mentioning that if you have a high deductible, it may be more cost-effective to pay for minor damages out of pocket. 

How Do I File A Claim?

You may think the first thing to do is contact your insurance company, but this is not true. The first thing to do is find a reputable auto glass service and let them contact the insurance company for you. 

If you contact your insurance company, the moment you tell them it’s windshield damage they may patch you over to an auto glass company of their choice. You have the right to choose what auto glass service repairs or replaces your windshield. Below we go over how to choose the right auto glass repair service. 

Selecting a Reputable Auto Glass Service

The first thing you want to do when searching for auto glass services is check out the reviews. Google is a great place to look and you should get a good idea there. Some companies are in-shop, meaning you bring your vehicle to them, and there are mobile services, who come to you. Both types have benefits and you have to consider them when thinking about what’s best for you. 

Also, does this auto glass company offer a warranty on parts and installation? Do their technicians have experience working on your particular make and model? Will they work directly with your insurance company so you don’t have to? These are all questions you want answered when researching auto glass repair and replacement services. 

We highly recommend going with a small, independently owned local business as opposed to a big corporation, which is where your insurance company connects you with when you call them first. Small businesses offer a level of customer service and expertise that the big boys can’t match.   

Do You Have a Damaged Windshield in the Covington Area of LA?

If you live in Covington, Hammond, Folsom, or Mandeville, Louisiana and you need a windshield replacement or repair, contact us at Hunter’s Auto Glass. Hunter likes to greet all his customers for that personal touch and he offers in-shop and mobile auto glass services to meet a variety of scheduling needs. We will work directly with your insurance so you can use your time toward something more productive while our technicians get your windshield installed or repaired quickly and efficiently.