A chipped or cracked windshield may seem like a minor cosmetic problem, but it can quickly become dangerous and costly. It’s crucial to get a damaged windshield swiftly repaired. However, the fear of filing an insurance claim keeps many people from getting this quick and critical repair. Here’s what you need to know about auto insurance and windshield repairs in British Columbia.
WHEN YOU SHOULD REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR WINDSHIELD
Your windshield is an essential safety feature of your car. In fact, it carries over half of your vehicle’s structural integrity during a rollover. If you ignore small cracks and chips, temperature changes and vibrations from driving on rough roads can cause them to spread, reducing protection in an accident.
Most auto glass shops can quickly repair windshield chips and cracks by injecting resin into the affected area, then putting pressure on the windshield until the resin dries. However, you can’t repair chips or cracks if they’re:
Larger than a loonie
Longer than eight centimetres
Deeper than the outer glass layer (if you can feel it from the inside, it’s too deep)
Close to the edges of the windshield, compromising the windshield’s structural integrity
In the driver’s direct line of sight
In the above cases, you must have your windshield replaced.
INSURANCE AND AUTO GLASS
Repairing your windshield is much cheaper than replacing it. Consequently, insurance providers encourage repairs before they become more costly claims. However, auto glass coverage is optional in some provinces, so many drivers opt for cheaper premiums and forego the coverage. Without glass coverage, you’re not covered for damage caused by flying gravel or vandalism. However, you’re covered if your windshield is damaged in a crash. If you’re unsure about your coverage, check with your insurance provider such as ICBC coverage in British Columbia.
HOW TO FILE AN ICBC AUTO GLASS INSURANCE CLAIM
Filing an ICBC insurance claim for auto glass repair is simple. Here’s how to do it.
Call your insurance company and ask if you’re eligible for windshield repair or replacement.
Find out your deductible. Windshield repairs aren’t expensive. Therefore, you may prefer to pay cash instead of making a claim.
If you make a claim, your insurance provider will give you a claim number. Call an auto glass shop, give them this number and book an appointment.
Once minor chips become too big to repair, you’ll be forced to replace your windshield. You could also face an increase in insurance premiums with an expensive claim.
AUTO GLASS REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
At All-West Glass, windshield repair and replacement are our specialties. No appointment is necessary for repairs, and in some cases, we can submit your auto insurance claim for you. Contact us today at one of our 18 auto glass shops in Western Canada, including Prince George, Fort St. John and Smithers. And remember, chip repairs are free for the first 30 days after a windshield replacement.