Back to top

Encompass® Insurance Insights & Articles



Windshield Damage & Repair: What Does My Insurance Cover?

House hunting in cold weather.

One moment you’re driving down the highway on your morning commute, the next moment a small rock flies up from the car in front of you, chipping part of the windshield. Yes, your windshield is cracked, but it’s not all bad news. Depending on the extent of the damage and your insurance policy, the repair may be completed at little or no cost to you. From small chips to big cracks, here are some helpful things to know about windshield damage and potential repair options:

Windshield Damage Repair Guide

  1. Report the claim as soon as possible.

    As soon as you notice a crack in your windshield you should seek professional assistance to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive. Should you have to file a claim, reach out to your insurance agent to assist you with beginning the claims process. It’s important to report the claim as soon as possible as a small chip may turn into a large crack if left unattended.

  2. Know your repair options.
    You may be eligible for a repair - rather than a more expensive replacement - if the damage can fit under a dollar bill, reports Safelite, a windshield repair company. If the damage is on the edge of the windshield, in your line of sight, or the windshield has greater than three chips it may have to be fully replaced. A windshield crack repair will leave only a slight blemish that becomes less noticeable with time. Plus, the repair leaves the original factory sealed windshield in place. If the chip is smaller than the size of a dollar bill, according to Safelite, your windshield will need to be repaired.

  3. Talk to a professional.
    Talk to a professional about your different repair options. A qualified auto glass repair technician evaluates a number of different factors when deciding on a repair or replacement.

  4. Don’t delay a repair or replacement.
    Chips can spread into large cracks, eventually requiring a full windshield replacement if not addressed promptly. A chip may be professionally sealed, cured and polished in as little as 30 minutes. If you have a major crack, prompt repair is important, too. Cracks can spread with temperature, hindering your ability to safely operate your vehicle. While windshields are specially constructed to prevent the glass from collapsing in on you while driving, it’s still not safe to drive with a major crack.


Family in the kitchen.

Cover home, auto & more.

Encompass Insurance offers protection for the things that matter most.

Find an agent

The general information contained in The Encompass Blog is provided as a courtesy, and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The contents of this website are subject to periodic change without notice. Information provided on The Encompass Blog is not intended to replace official sources. Although attempts will be made to ensure that the information is accurate and timely, the information is presented "as is" and without warranties. Information contained on The Encompass Blog should not be mistaken for professional advice. Information contained herein should not be considered error-free and should not be used as the exclusive basis for decision-making. Use of website information is strictly voluntary and at the user's sole risk. We encourage you to obtain personal advice from qualified professionals when making decision regarding your specific situation.

Other resources linked from these pages are maintained by independent providers. The Encompass Blog does not monitor all linked resources and cannot guarantee their accuracy. Statements, views and opinions included in an independent provider's material are strictly those of the author(s). These views may not necessarily represent the opinions or policies of The Encompass Blog, the Encompass family of companies or its agents, officers or employees.

ECC Monitor: OK