Indiana Windshield Replacement Auto Insurance (2024)

When you need to replace damaged glass in your car, knowing the Indiana windshield replacement law can help you get the best service for your money. The state doesn’t require zero-cost replacement from insurance companies. However, it does give grant vehicle owners choices in full glass replacement. Combined with the right insurance policy, replacement costs could be minimal for many vehicle owners.

What does Indiana law say about full glass insurance coverage?

Some states require insurance companies to provide free windshield replacement in their comprehensive coverage policies. This saves car owners from having to pay a car insurance deductible or replacement costs for a damaged windshield. Unfortunately, Indiana law does not require insurance companies to provide these benefits. While some policies may include windshield coverage, there are no statewide mandates for this service to be free.

What are Indiana’s laws about glass replacement?

While the state code does not address windshield cracks, the laws in Indiana prohibit driving when the driver’s view of the road is obstructed. For motorists who have cracks or chips in their windshield, a total replacement can restore a clear line of sight. Indiana’s laws do protect consumers when it comes to options for replacing windshield glass. If you own a vehicle less than five years old, you have the right to choose the glass used during the replacement process.

Car owners in Indiana can choose from used, OEM, and aftermarket glass. OEM refers to Original Equipment Manufacturer, which means that the glass would be ordered from the vehicle manufacturer. Aftermarket parts are those which are compatible with your specific make and model but produced by a different parts company.

When should you file a glass replacement claim?

While car insurance helps with damages caused by a car accident, not every insurance policy will cover windshield damage. A windshield could be chipped or cracked by rocks, falling debris, or a collision with a stationary object. If the damage is minimal, you can opt for a repair. If the size of the crack or chip is larger than a dollar bill, you will need to have it replaced.

Understanding the coverage terms of your policy is important before filing a claim for your windshield damage. If you have only purchased minimum liability coverage, you could end up paying for your damaged windshield out of pocket. While your insurance would likely step in to cover the replacement for the other driver involved, it won’t cover your car’s windshield. You may have to file a claim on the other individual’s insurance to have your glass repaired or replaced.

In most cases, comprehensive will cover non-collision-related damages. These situations include:

• Vandalism
• Flying rocks or debris
• Fallen tree branch
• Animal contact

In the damage is from anything like this, file a comprehensive claim, and you should be covered. Depending on your policy, you may have to pay a deductible. In some cases, this could end up costing more than simply taking care of the replacement expenses on your own.

Will my insurance cover a damaged windshield?

It is important to review the terms of your coverage before deciding to file a claim for damaged windshield glass. Take a look at any policy limits and the required deductible amount to weigh the pros and cons of filing a claim.  The deductible is the amount you will be responsible for before the insurance company pays the remaining costs. Deductible amounts vary and often range between $250 to $1,000. However, your policy may not cover a cracked windshield.

A liability policy typically covers the other party’s damages and injuries that occur in the accident, but it may not cover repair work to your damaged car. On the other hand, a collision policy may cover windshield damage if it occurred as the result of a collision. Comprehensive insurance will cover glass repair in any non-collision incident. 

What is an affordable way to replace or repair a damaged windshield?

It’s important to compare quotes from different service companies on the cost of the repair or replacement. For those facing a steep deductible, it could be more affordable to pay for the cost of your windshield replacement on your own.

Filing a claim could also cause an increase in your rates down the road. Additionally, Indiana state law does not give drivers the right to choose the glass replacement company they want to work with. Your insurance company may determine this for you.

One way to make windshield repairs more affordable is to upgrade your current policy. Your current insurer may have options for better coverage for full glass replacement. Using a free auto insurance comparison could also lead you to an insurance company that gives you both the rates and coverage you need.

Indiana’s Full Glass Coverage Laws: Bottom Line

Knowing the benefits of your insurance coverage before you decide to file a claim for windshield glass replacement is important. Indiana’s laws protect consumers when choosing their glass replacement, but they also require you to drive without visual obstructions. Addressing chipped or cracked windshield glass is important for remaining safe on the road.