You’re driving along on a nice sunny afternoon, when suddenly out of nowhere, a stone flies up and leaves a tiny stone chip in your windshield. It’s ironic that the tiniest of specks from gravel, sand, ice, a pebble, fallen debris from trees, and even a bird can chip or crack your windshield, sunroof, or side and rear windows of your vehicle.

Most auto insurance plans will cover the repair or replacement of these glass surfaces if they’re damaged by a stone, storm, vandalism, or an animal collision.

However, just because you have the comprehensive insurance coverage doesn’t mean you have to pay for the deductible. Before you opt to go through your insurance, consider the following…

What is your deductible?

Before you agree to have insurance fix your damaged windshield, consider your comprehensive deductible. Most insurance companies will cover the cost if you pay a deductible, and depending on your policy, the cost of the deductible (or what you pay) will differ. Obviously, it makes sense to pay out-of-pocket if the cost to repair your windshield is less than your deductible. However, if you need an entire windshield or window replacement, it would be wise to pay the deductible and file an insurance claim if the cost is more.

How will it affect your insurance premium?
If you need a windshield or window replacement due to a stone chip, storm, or animal collision, it’s rare for an increase in your insurance premiums. However, if the damage is due to a collision (with another vehicle) a filed claim may result in an insurance increase and even cause an increase when you renew your policy.

To submit a claim for windshield replacement, follow these steps:

• Contact your auto insurance company to file a claim by person, online, or in person so your agent can explain the details of your comprehensive coverage.
• Your insurance company will send an agent to assess the damage to your windshield a and to approve the coverage.
• Get your windshield fixed. Keep in mind, your insurance company may contract certain companies to do this work.
• If you are permitted to go to the garage of your choice, submit your claim for reimbursement along with your service invoice to your insurance company.