Is Windshield Repair Covered by Insurance in Illinois or Indiana?

Our vehicle’s windshield is essential for so much more than just keeping the wind out of our faces. It plays an integral role in the structural integrity of your vehicle and it needs to be clear and free of damage so the driver has optimal visibility. But what happens when your windshield is damaged and needs to be repaired? 

Many drivers in Illinois and Indiana are unsure if their insurance covers windshield damage. In this blog, we’ll discuss insurance coverage in both states. What is covered by your insurance depends on what type of coverage you have on your vehicle and any state-specific regulations. 

Understanding Windshield Coverage

Windshield damage is typically covered under comprehensive auto insurance, but repairs to a windshield are not covered under liability insurance coverage. In many cases, coverage can include repairs, full replacements, and deductible waivers, depending on the details of your specific policy. 

Windshield Repair Coverage in Illinois 

• Comprehensive Coverage: If you have this type of insurance then your windshield repair should be covered. 
• Deductible Rules: In some cases, insurers waive the deductible for minor repairs like small chips or cracks.
• Full Glass Coverage: Some policies have full glass coverage. This covers replacement without having to pay a deductible. 
• IL State Regulations: Illinois doesn’t have a mandatory zero-deductible windshield replacement law. 

Windshield Repair Coverage in Indiana

• Comprehensive Insurance: Just like Illinois, comprehensive insurance typically covers windshield repair and replacement. 
• Deductible Waiver: Also similar to Illinois, some Indiana insurers might waive the deductible in the case of minor repairs. 
• Full Glass Coverage: Some policies in Indiana allow owners to add on full glass replacement coverage without a deductible. 
• IN State Regulations: And, like Illinois, Indiana does not require insurers to offer zero-deductible windshield replacement. 

When Would Windshield Repair Not Be Covered?

There are a couple of reasons windshield repair would not be covered. One of them is if the owner has liability insurance. This type of insurance only covers damages that the insurer causes to others, but not on the owner’s vehicle. It’s typically less expensive and can only be selected if the owner doesn’t have a bank loan on the car. 

If the damage to your windshield is normal wear and tear it may not be covered, even if you have comprehensive coverage. Other policies could have specific exclusions or high deductibles that might make a small repair like windshield damage worth paying out of pocket. 

How Do I Make a Claim?

You can contact your insurance company, but they’ll likely patch you over to an auto glass company that they want you to work with, which will likely be a big corporate company. As the owner, you have the right to choose what auto glass service you want to repair your windshield, they just have to be in your insurance company’s network. 

Many independently owned auto glass services work with all major insurance companies, and you’ll find that your experience working with a small, independently owned auto glass service will be much more pleasurable and faster than it would be with a large corporation. Most reputable auto glass services will even contact your insurance company to make that claim. 

Do You Need Windshield Repair in Chicagoland or Northwest Indiana Areas?

If you live, work, or are driving through Mokena, New Lenox, Saint John, Crown Point, or surrounding areas, and need a windshield repair, contact us at Nacco Glass. We’ve been repairing and replacing windshields and other auto glass in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana for more than thirty years. We offer in-shop and mobile services, which give you options to meet your schedule and needs.