You’ve got the keys in your hand and you’re ready to hit the road—then you lay eyes on your windshield and you notice the giant chip and crack in it. To make matters worse, you find out your windshield can’t be repaired.
Fast-forward to needing a windshield replacement—a bill you weren’t prepared for. Do you have to pay your car insurance deductible, or will Ohio pay for your windshield replacement in situations like these?
We’ve got your answer.
Ohio Law and Windshield Replacement
Unlike some states, Ohio unfortunately will not waive the deductible for windshield replacement. That’s why the state encourages drivers to have “comprehensive coverage” as part of their auto insurance policy.
According to the Ohio Department of Insurance, “vehicle damage caused by water-related events, ice, heavy snow and burst water pipes are normally covered under the ‘other-than-collision’ (also known as ‘comprehensive’) portion of an auto insurance policy. This is optional coverage that has to be purchased.”
Ok, but what is comprehensive coverage? Do you have it?
Do You Qualify for Free Windshield Replacement?
Ohio 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
Comprehensive coverage is more than the mandatory minimum. Instead, this type of insurance pays for damage to your car that isn’t caused by a car accident (like vandalism, theft, a falling object or hitting an animal). Unlike liability coverage, comprehensive coverage doesn’t cover damage to your car that’s caused by a collision or the medical bills for you or your passengers.
If you aren’t sure if you have comprehensive coverage, check with your insurance company. In most instances, you will have comprehensive coverage if you are leasing or financing your car. And, most lenders require comprehensive coverage if your car hasn’t been paid off.
Find Yourself with a Broken Windshield? Call Us!
In the event your windshield has been cracked or broken and needs repair or replacement, you should make a claim through your comprehensive auto insurance policy. Ohio law states that as —so 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. At Jack’s Glass, we make things convenient: we offer mobile, on-site service on your schedule, and we work directly with insurers on your behalf.
Have more questions about car insurance and windshield replacement? We’ve got answers. Check out our FAQs.
We’ve Got You Covered
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 for shower and tub enclosures plus 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.
