Windshield damage is one of the most common car-related issues that drivers encounter. Whether it’s a small crack, a chip from flying debris, or a more significant shatter, dealing with windshield damage promptly is essential for safety and avoiding further complications. In Montreal, as in other parts of Canada, many drivers are left wondering whether their car insurance covers windshield repairs, and if so, under what circumstances. In this blog post, we will dive into the specifics of insurance coverage for windshield repairs in Montreal and help you understand your rights and options as a policyholder.
Types of Windshield Damage
Before we get into the specifics of insurance coverage, it’s important to understand the different types windshield repair of windshield damage that may occur. Windshields are vulnerable to damage from road debris, weather conditions, and even accidents. The most common forms of damage include:
- Chips: Small indentations in the glass caused by stones, gravel, or other flying debris. Chips are often repairable if they are small enough and not directly in the driver’s line of sight.
- Cracks: Cracks can range from tiny hairline fractures to large, noticeable breaks in the glass. Depending on the size, location, and severity of the crack, it may be repairable or require a full windshield replacement.
- Shattering: When a windshield is severely damaged due to impact or stress, it may shatter entirely. This type of damage usually requires a complete windshield replacement.
While minor chips can often be repaired quickly and inexpensively, cracks and complete shattering may require a full replacement, which can be significantly more costly.
Insurance Coverage for Windshield Damage
In Montreal, as in the rest of Quebec, car insurance is regulated by the provincial government and is subject to the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) guidelines. There are two main types of car insurance coverage that might apply to windshield repair: Liability Insurance and Comprehensive Insurance. Let’s look at both in detail.
1. Comprehensive Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is the most likely type of coverage for windshield repair or replacement. This insurance covers damage to your vehicle that does not result from a collision, such as damage from weather events (hail, snow, ice), theft, vandalism, and even the rocks or debris that can hit your windshield while driving.
If you have comprehensive insurance as part of your auto policy, windshield repairs and replacements are often covered. However, it’s important to note that different insurance providers may have different terms and conditions. Some may offer specific coverage for glass damage, while others may only cover it under general comprehensive coverage. Always read the fine print to see what’s included.
- Glass Coverage Add-on: Some insurers offer a specific add-on for glass coverage. This means that if your windshield gets chipped or cracked, you may not need to pay a deductible, and the repair could be done without affecting your premium. This coverage is usually cheaper to add to your policy than you might think and can be a worthwhile investment if you live in an area prone to road debris or weather-related damage.
2. Collision Insurance
Collision insurance, which covers damage resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, typically does not apply to windshield repairs unless the damage occurred as part of an accident. In the case of windshield damage from an accident, your insurance company would likely cover the repair costs, but you would still be responsible for your deductible.
- High Deductibles: Collision insurance often comes with higher deductibles compared to comprehensive coverage. If the windshield damage is minimal or confined to chips and cracks, it might be more economical to pay for the repair out of pocket rather than file a claim under collision coverage.
