Maryland Windshield Replacement Auto Insurance (2024)

A damaged windshield, whether it’s a crack or chip, can limit your visibility and potentially lead to an accident. A fully intact windshield is crucial for your safety, passengers, and other motorists, and the laws regarding windshield replacement in Maryland could make replacement easier and more affordable. How does Maryland auto insurance work with windshield repair?

Tight finances are often a reason windshield repairs get pushed to the back burner, but there are options for lowering the cost of this service.

Does Maryland require windshield replacement insurance?

Damage to the windshield can vary, and while it may be possible to still see the road, the law prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle where there is an obstruction to the driver’s line of sight. Replacing the glass should be a priority for driving safely and avoiding collisions. Simply repairing the glass could keep unnecessary liability claims from being filed on your insurance.

State minimums for car insurance in Maryland require drivers to carry liability auto insurance coverage, but there are no requirements concerning the coverage and costs of replacing windshield glass. There are several states that require insurance companies to provide full glass replacement services at no cost. Even though it’s required to be at no cost in these states, the service is typically only included with higher coverage policies like collision or comprehensive. 

This law does not exist in Maryland. Individuals who want windshield replacement are responsible for the costs, whether it’s paying their policy’s deductible or replacing the glass out of pocket.

Having your windshield replaced is a matter of personal safety, and it can also impact other motorists on the road. Fortunately, Maryland has made it easy to pursue replacement services.

How do Maryland laws support full glass replacement services?

Thanks to changes in Maryland laws, drivers in need of a new windshield have several options available to them. One of these options is using an insurance claim to get help paying for a damaged windshield. 

However, insurance coverage isn’t guaranteed for every situation.

Insurance Coverage for Glass Replacement in Maryland

A standard liability policy is used to address property damage and injuries that occur to the other motorist in an accident. This is also the minimum required insurance coverage in Maryland. However, this insurance wouldn’t be helpful when trying to repair your own windshield. It would take a claim on the other driver’s insurance to pay for the replacement.

There are insurance companies in Maryland that include full glass replacement, though sometimes it’s only as a benefit under a comprehensive coverage policy. Knowing if you carry windshield replacement insurance as a part of your policy will help decide if filing a claim is worth it. If you do decide to file the incident on your insurance, you may still be facing a steep expense. You generally have to pay your policy’s deductible for replacement services, which could amount to several hundred dollars. 

The standard deductible is $500, but depending on where you look for a replacement service, you could get a quote that is several hundred dollars cheaper. 

Maryland does not have a zero-deductible law for insurance claims for auto glass, but there are some drivers who have policies that don’t require a deductible for glass coverage. 

A no-cost or low-cost deductible benefit can be a more affordable way of having your windshield replaced than paying for the services out of pocket. As you change the terms of your policy to a lower deductible, it will likely increase your premium. You could end up paying more for your insurance over the lifetime of your policy than you would if you had paid for glass replacement on your own.

Glass Options for Windshield Replacement in Maryland

One benefit of Maryland’s replacement law is that all windshield glass must meet certain safety standards. If you are using your insurance to pay for full glass replacement, there could be limited options when looking at windshield replacement. 

The details of your insurance policy may specify what type of glass must be used and dictate which company can do the work. If your insurance is paying for the replacement after you have met your deductible, you may be required to use original manufacturing parts. These are more costly replacements.

Those who aren’t going to file a glass claim for their replacement have the option to purchase used or aftermarket glass for their windshield. These options still need to meet the minimum safety standards set by Maryland law, but both of these glass options cost much less than OEM glass from the manufacturer.

By paying for the replacement out of pocket, you can shop for the best installation rates as well as a cheaper replacement glass. This freedom of choice could lead to significant savings when compared to paying a claim deductible and higher premiums over the term of your policy.

How can I afford windshield replacement in Maryland?

Windshield damage is something every driver hopes they can avoid but should always be prepared for. On average, replacement costs vary between $200 to $400. The type of glass chosen and the company chosen to do the service will impact the cost. 

For those with a high deductible on their auto insurance, it may be more affordable to pay to fix your windshield out of pocket. However, if you look for cheap car insurance in Maryland, you can find an insurance company that offers a full glass replacement at zero to little cost through a comprehensive policy.

Final Thoughts on Maryland Windshield Replacement Insurance

Though state laws don’t guarantee low-cost windshield replacement coverage, the laws in place do encourage driver safety. Comprehensive insurance, as well as minimum liability coverage, can make it easier to afford glass replacement when a collision is to blame for the damage.