UPDATED: 07/07/18
You’ve come outside only to find that your windshield has a big chip or crack in it. Then, on top of that, you find out that your windshield can’t be repaired.
So you need a windshield replacement, but how will you pay for it? Do you have to pay your car insurance deductible, or will Kentucky pay for your windshield replacement?
Keep reading to find out!
Kentucky Law and Windshield Replacement
Kentucky is one of the few states that will waive the deductible for windshield replacement—under certain conditions.
KRS 304.20-060, titled “coverage for safety equipment,” states:
- As used in this section, “safety equipment” shall mean only the glass used in the windshield, doors and windows, and the glass, plastic or other material used in the lights required by KRS Chapter 189 on any automobile.
- Any automobile insurance policy that provides comprehensive coverage, whether designated as such, or included within a broader coverage, shall provide complete coverage for repair or replacement of damaged safety equipment, without regard to any deductible or minimum amount.
- This section shall apply to all policies issued after January 1, 1979.
This is great news for Kentucky drivers! This means that it’s very possible you can get your windshield replaced with no cost to you—as long as your insurance includes comprehensive coverage.
Ok, but what is comprehensive coverage? Do you have it?
Do You Qualify for Free Windshield Replacement?
Kentucky requires all drivers to carry the following minimum liability coverage:
- $25,000 for one person’s bodily injury claims
- At least $50,000 for all bodily injury claims sustained in one accident
- $25,000 for all property damage caused in one accident
Kentucky also allows a driver to carry a policy with a single limit of $60,000.
Comprehensive coverage, however, is more than the mandatory minimum. Comprehensive coverage is insurance that pays for damage to your car that isn’t caused by a car accident, like vandalism, theft, a falling object, and hitting an animal. Unlike liability coverage, this type of coverage doesn’t cover damage to your car that’s caused by a collision or the medical bills of you or your passengers.
Do you have comprehensive coverage? While only you can know this for sure, it’s pretty likely that you have comprehensive coverage if you are leasing or financing your car. Most lenders require comprehensive coverage if your car hasn’t been paid off. (Either way, you’ll want to double-check with your insurance company.)
Broken Windshield? Call Us!
When you have an unexpected broken windshield, it can be a major relief to know you’ll have no out-of-pocket expenses, assuming a windshield replacement costs less than your deductible.
If your windshield has been cracked or broken and needs repair or replacement, it’s a good idea to make a claim through your comprehensive automotive insurance policy. Before doing so, make sure to have an in-depth conversation with an insurance representative about your policy and whether or not you qualify to get your deductible waived.
If you do qualify, contact a local automotive glass repair shop—like Jack’s Glass—to have certified glass and safety experts get your vehicle back on the road. We make things convenient: we offer mobile, on-site service on your schedule, and we work directly with insurers on your behalf.
Call us today!
Jack’s Glass has excelled in glass repair, replacement and design for more than 65 years. Jack’s Glass provides repair and replacement for auto glass and custom solutions shower and tub enclosures and many other residential glass items. We also do custom glasswork for businesses, and proudly serve Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky with locations in Elsmere, Covington, Alexandria and Dry Ridge.
