A cracked windshield isn’t just an annoying cosmetic issue. It can impair your visibility and compromise your vehicle’s safety. If you’re driving in Newfoundland, where harsh winters and gravel roads are common, windshield damage is something many drivers will face. But does your auto insurance policy help cover the cost of repairs or replacement? Let’s break it down.
Windshield Damage Coverage in Newfoundland
In Newfoundland and Labrador, whether your insurance covers a cracked windshield depends on your selected auto insurance coverage. Here’s how it typically works:
- Comprehensive Coverage: This is the most common type of policy that covers windshield damage. It protects against non-collision events, like flying rocks, hail, vandalism, or falling tree branches. If your windshield cracks from one of these causes, you’re usually covered under your comprehensive policy.
- Glass Coverage (Optional Add-on): Some insurers offer specialized glass coverage endorsements. This add-on can help cover the full cost of windshield repair or replacement without paying a deductible. Adding glass coverage is often inexpensive and can be worthwhile if you do a lot of highway driving or live in rural areas where stone chips are standard.
- Collision Coverage: If your windshield cracked during an accident where your vehicle hit another car or object, the damage may fall under your collision insurance.
- Liability-Only Policies: If you carry basic liability insurance (the legal minimum in Newfoundland), damage to your windshield won’t be covered. Liability insurance only protects others in an accident you cause, not your own vehicle.
Do You Pay a Deductible for Windshield Repairs?
This depends on your policy:
- If your windshield is repaired (small cracks or chips), many insurers waive the deductible to encourage quick fixes before damage worsens.
- If your windshield needs full replacement, you may need to pay your standard comprehensive deductible unless you have glass coverage that waives it.
For example, if you have a $250 deductible, and the replacement costs $400, you’d pay $250, and your insurer covers the rest.
Should You File a Claim for a Cracked Windshield?
Before making a claim, consider:
- Cost of Repairs vs. Deductible: If repairs cost less than your deductible, paying out of pocket is often cheaper.
- Impact on Premiums: Windshield claims under comprehensive coverage generally don’t affect your premium rates in Newfoundland, but frequent claims might.
Talking to your broker before filing can help you weigh the pros and cons.
How to Prevent Windshield Damage in Newfoundland
- Keep Safe Distance: Stay back from large trucks and gravel-hauling vehicles.
- Avoid Following Too Closely on Gravel Roads: Especially in rural NL areas.
- Use Covered Parking When Possible: To avoid falling debris or ice buildup.
- Address Chips Early: Small repairs are often covered and prevent costly replacements.
Why Work with a Local Insurance Broker?
At Wedgwood Insurance, we help Newfoundland drivers understand exactly what their policy covers, including their windshields. As the province’s largest independent insurance broker, we offer:
- Personalized advice.
- Access to multiple insurers for competitive quotes.
- Help adding glass coverage if you need it.
If you’re already a client, we can review your current policy for free to ensure you’re fully protected.
What This Means for You
If you’re driving in Newfoundland and wondering whether your insurance covers a cracked windshield, here’s the short answer: if you’ve got comprehensive or optional glass coverage, you’re likely protected. If you only carry basic liability insurance, you’re not.
Small cracks can often be fixed with no deductible. Full windshield replacements might cost you your deductible unless you’ve added glass coverage.
If you’re unsure about your coverage, your local team at Wedgwood Insurance can help. We’ll explain your options in plain language and make sure your coverage actually fits your needs.
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Wedgwood Insurance has offices in St. John’s & Corner Brook and is Newfoundland & Labrador’s largest independent insurance broker. We provide straightforward home, auto & business insurance advice.
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