Which part of my policy pays for a windshield?
Comprehensive coverage pays for glass broken by rocks, falling objects, vandalism, weather and similar non-collision events. If the windshield broke in a crash, the claim usually goes under collision coverage instead. Liability-only policies don't pay for your own glass.
Progressive's coverage guide describes the same split: comprehensive for glass damage, collision when a crash caused it.
| Situation | Usual coverage | What you pay |
|---|---|---|
| Rock from a truck on I-15 cracks the windshield | Comprehensive | Comprehensive deductible |
| Chip repaired before it spreads | Comprehensive | Often $0 (many insurers waive it for repairs) |
| Windshield broken in a collision | Collision | Collision deductible |
| Break-in shatters a side window | Comprehensive | Comprehensive deductible |
| Liability-only policy | Not covered | Full cost |
How much will I pay out of pocket?
You pay your comprehensive deductible, unless your policy includes optional full glass coverage. If your deductible is higher than the cost of the job, paying cash is cheaper and keeps the claim off your record.
California does not have a zero-deductible glass law. Some insurers sell a glass add-on that lowers or removes the deductible for glass. See zero-deductible glass coverage in California and our cost guide to run the numbers.
Is chip repair free with insurance?
Often, yes. Many insurers waive the deductible for repairs because a repair costs far less than a replacement. Progressive, for example, says a repairable crack under 6 inches can be fixed without a deductible. Check your own policy or call your insurer, because this is a company choice, not a state rule.
If your chip qualifies, a free repair now can prevent a deductible later. Learn about rock chip repair.
Can my insurer make me use their glass shop?
No. Under California Insurance Code 758.5, an insurer may not require you to use a particular repair shop. It can recommend one only if you ask or after telling you in writing that you have the right to choose. Once you pick a shop, it may not suggest another. If your policy itself directs repairs to a particular shop, the insurer must disclose that and may not cut reasonable costs to what that shop would have charged.
Many insurers send glass claims through a call center that offers its own network first. You can say which shop you want. The California Department of Insurance handles complaints about claim handling at 800-927-4357.
What changes in 2027 under SB 988?
Starting January 1, 2027, the California Motor Vehicle Glass Act adds rules for glass shops and insurers on insurance-paid work. According to the law as signed, the main changes are:
- A shop can't sign you up for insurance-paid work until a claim is filed and it has a claim or referral number.
- Shops must give a good-faith estimate and an itemized invoice.
- Shops must tell you before work whether your car has ADAS, whether the automaker calls for calibration, and whether they will do it.
- Rebates, gift cards and cash for filing a glass claim are banned.
- Assignment of benefits is banned, though your insurer can still pay the shop directly.
- Insurers may still recommend shops but may not mislead, threaten or coerce you.
Sources: LegiScan bill page and Autobody News summary.
Will a glass claim raise my rates?
It depends on your insurer. Comprehensive claims are generally treated differently from at-fault accidents, but each company sets its own rating rules. Progressive's guide says the effect varies between companies. Ask your agent before filing if it concerns you, especially for a small claim close to your deductible.
How do I file a windshield claim?
Most glass claims take a few minutes by phone or app.
- Get a quote first. Know the cash price so you can compare it to your deductible.
- Call your insurer or open the app. Report glass damage and the date it happened.
- Name your shop. Tell them which shop you want. You don't have to accept the one they suggest.
- Get the claim number. From 2027, the shop needs it before the work can be contracted.
- Schedule the work. Pay your deductible to the shop. The insurer pays the rest.
- Keep the paperwork. Save the invoice and, if your car has a camera, the calibration result.
Need help?
We work with every insurance company and can stay on the line while you start the claim. Read about our insurance claims help or get a quote to compare the cash price to your deductible.