Alabama Windshield Replacement Auto Insurance (2024)

Driving with a cracked windshield is dangerous, and most motorists will need to replace their windows and windshields at some point. Because of the danger, many laws across the U.S., including Alabama, require drivers to repair their windshield if it obstructs the driver’s view.

Glass laws vary by state and tie closely to the state’s insurance laws. Depending on your home state, your insurance company may be required to pay for windshield or window repairs in full, even if you have a deductible. However, states with full glass laws requiring insurance companies to fully cover windshield repairs are rare.

Unfortunately, full glass coverage laws in Alabama do not obligate auto insurance companies to cover windshield damages in full. Instead, the state offers a unique set of laws that impact drivers and insurance companies.

What are the full glass coverage laws in Alabama?

Alabama’s full glass coverage laws lack specific requirements that other states have. For example, Alabama has no legal specifications dictating where a windshield repair may take place or whether or not insurance companies must pay for windshield repairs in full.

Consequentially, individual insurance companies offer insurance policies that may or may not affect where a repair can happen and may or may not offer plans with comprehensive coverage. However, Alabama glass laws require parts to be like in kind, quality, and value.

Do Alabama glass laws require zero deductible coverage?

Like the majority of U.S. states, Alabama has no zero deductible full glass coverage law. Zero deductible full glass coverage laws require an insurance company to cover your windshield repair or replacement without a deductible.

Although rare, some insurance companies in Alabama do waive a deductible if you invest in select insurance policies. Typically, only fully comprehensive auto insurance plans cover windshield repairs in Alabama with a waived deductible.

Comparably, standard liability insurance will only cover damage to another driver’s windshield if you are at fault for an accident. Comprehensive coverage will pay for windshield damages not resulting from a collision, including:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Windshield damage from debris

In most cases, you will have to pay a deductible for glass repair.

Do Alabama laws regulate replacement parts for glass?

Yes, Alabama full glass laws loosely regulate replacement parts, including windshields. Guidelines set forth by the Alabama Department of Insurance explain that car parts must be of like kind and quality and restore the vehicle its value before the loss.

Ultimately, the guidelines suggest that your repair shop may use different brands of replacement parts as long as they are of similar value. Therefore, as long as windshield replacement parts follow Alabama law, the decision on what is permissible to use may fall on your insurance company.

It may be wise to review your insurance policy before engaging in a repair transaction to avoid any complications. There is a chance that your insurance policy will dictate where you may repair your car parts.

Do Alabama glass laws affect a driver’s windshield repair choice? 

Alabama laws do not directly impact a driver’s windshield repair shop choice. However, since Alabama lacks a law protecting a driver’s right to repair shop choice, most insurance company policies have language explaining where a repair may happen.

If you take your vehicle into a repair shop for an estimate before having the shop approved by your insurance company, you risk wasting your time and getting an estimate you will not use. Additionally, most insurance policies imply that your insurance company will not have to reimburse you for repairs made at a shop that the company has not approved.

Consulting your auto insurance company and reviewing your insurance policy language will ensure that you make an informed decision when deciphering where to have your car repaired.

How can I get cheap auto insurance coverage in Alabama?

To get the best price on auto insurance, compare insurance policies before committing to just any coverage plan. Different policies will impact price and where you will make repairs if you need them in the future.

Since Alabama is not a state that requires insurance companies to waive a deductible, remember that you will likely pay a deductible for a windshield repair. It is ultimately up to the insurance company to decide. 

Choosing your car insurance deductible means balancing your monthly rates against your out-of-pocket costs in an accident. A higher deductible will generally lower your auto insurance premiums. On the other hand, a lower deductible will increase your insurance rates.

Overall, keep in mind that if you have a cheaper policy and pay lower insurance rates, the higher your deductible will be when you make repairs. While your insurance rates may be lower, you will have to pay more in the event that your vehicle needs repairs.

Understanding Alabama Full Glass Laws and Car Insurance 

While Alabama glass laws only state that repair parts must be comparable to the original part’s value, Alabama’s lack of clear legal guidelines still impacts drivers and insurers. Ultimately, your auto insurance company and policy will be responsible for determining where and how you handle your windshield repairs.