(BPT) - While road debris can damage your vehicle's windshield at any time, seasonal severe weather events are also a major cause of glass damage. With extreme weather on the rise especially at this time of year, hazards like hail, projectiles blown by high winds and drastic temperature fluctuations can all wreak havoc on your car's windshield and windows.
But did you know such damage may not be fully covered by your auto insurance? The experts at Glass Doctor®, a Neighborly® company and leading provider of glass repair and replacement services, encourage all drivers to review their insurance policies so you'll know what's covered, to help you avoid costly surprises.
Here are some things you should know about protecting your vehicle.
Minor chips can quickly become major hazards
Even if you only see a small chip in your windshield, it's best to be proactive and get it repaired as soon as possible. Minor chips or cracks can expand rapidly, reducing your visibility as well as your safety. In most states, extensive windshield damage or damage that limits the driver's visibility also makes your vehicle illegal to operate.
Comprehensive coverage to protect your vehicle
If you own a vehicle, check your policy or contact your insurance agent to ensure you're fully covered for glass repairs from collisions, debris, extreme weather events and more. But you'll also want to ask about the following:
ADAS calibration: Vehicles today rely on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which require calibration after a windshield replacement. It's important to know that not all policies cover this crucial step, so make sure to confirm whether ADAS calibration is included to avoid safety issues and unexpected costs after necessary glass repairs.
Choice of provider: While many insurance companies recommend or direct customers to their preferred repair networks, policyholders often have the right to choose their own glass repair service provider. Ask your agent or check your policy to see if you'll have that choice in the event of damage. Opting for a trusted, locally owned company, like Glass Doctor, can lead to better service and fewer surprise expenses.
To help make glass repair and replacement simple, timely, and stress-free, Glass Doctor offers a Windshield Protection Plan designed to help drivers quickly and affordably address common road hazard damage quickly and affordably. The plan includes unlimited windshield repairs or one full replacement within one year of the original installation, along with ADAS calibration when necessary.
Don't forget about your home's glass
Like vehicles, your home's windows are vulnerable to damage from storms, accidents, or simple wear and tear. But did you know some insurance policies have home glass damage exclusions? That means the policies won't cover certain types of glass damage, such as gradual wear, flooding, earthquakes, and accidental damage. Regular maintenance of your windows and a solid understanding of your policy's limitations can help ensure that your homeowner's insurance policy remains effective.
No matter the cause of the damage, Glass Doctor experts work closely with insurance providers, offering support to customers throughout the glass-related coverage claims process for auto and home glass repairs. To help prevent unpleasant surprises after an accident, review your policy in advance rather than after damage occurs for long-term financial protection and peace of mind.
"Glass damage to cars and homes often happens at the worst times, like during a family road trip or following a sudden, severe storm," said Thomas Patterson, director of New Product Development and Technical Training for Glass Doctor. "Safeguarding your property with the right insurance coverage can protect your investment and reduce stress when the unexpected happens. Not all policies are the same, so check your coverage before damage occurs to protect your investment fully."
Learn more about Glass Doctor's auto and home glass repair services at GlassDoctor.com.
