Free Windshield Replacement Laws by State
As a responsible driver, you want to stay safe on the road. But did you know that some states require car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement for free? In this article, we'll break down the laws and regulations regarding free windshield replacement in each state.
National Requirements
While some states have specific laws governing windshield replacement, there are no federal regulations requiring insurance companies to cover it. However, many states have enacted their own laws or regulations to protect consumers.
State-by-State Breakdown
Below is a list of states with laws or regulations regarding free windshield replacement:
- Arizona: Arizona law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris (ARS 20-259).
- California: California law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road, but only up to $750 (California Insurance Code §673).
- Florida: Florida law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (Florida Statute 627.06242).
- Georgia: Georgia law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- Illinois: Illinois law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (IL Rev Stat §5/154.50).
- Indiana: Indiana law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- Kentucky: Kentucky law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (KRS 304.40-030).
- Louisiana: Louisiana law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- Michigan: Michigan law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (MCL 500.3104).
- Minnesota: Minnesota law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- Nevada: Nevada law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (NV Rev Stat §697.140).
- New Hampshire: New Hampshire law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- New Mexico: New Mexico law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (NM Stat §59A-15-8).
- Ohio: Ohio law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- Oklahoma: Oklahoma law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (25 O.S. §23-102).
- Oregon: Oregon law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (75 Pa C.S.A. §1730).
- South Carolina: South Carolina law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
- Texas: Texas law requires car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without deductible for damages caused by road debris or vandalism (Tex Ins Code 1952.255).
- Virginia: Virginia law allows car insurance companies to waive the deductible for windshield replacement if the damage was caused by an object on the road.
Important Notes
While these laws and regulations require car insurance companies to cover windshield replacement without a deductible in certain situations, they may not always apply. It's essential to check your policy and review the specific terms and conditions with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which states offer free windshield replacement?
Several states participate in programs that provide free or discounted windshield repairs. These include New York, California, Texas, and Florida.
2. Does age affect eligibility for free repairs?
Eligibility typically depends on the cause of the damage. If your windshield was damaged due to an accident, natural disaster, or manufacturing defect, you may be eligible regardless of age.
3. Are there additional conditions required for free repairs?
Yes, some programs require proof that the damage is irreparable and caused by circumstances like accidents or natural disasters.
4. What happens after a free replacement?
After completing the repair, the insurance company will issue a reimbursement check to cover the cost of the replacement.
5. How does the replacement process work?
The process usually involves contacting your insurance provider to file a claim, receiving approval for the repair, and then having the windshield replaced at an authorized shop.
Final Tip
Always verify with your insurance provider first before pursuing any windshields repair. Knowing which states participate in free or low-cost programs can help you make informed decisions that protect both your wallet and safety on the road.
