Does Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement in California?

California has amazing scenic roads and highways that drivers love to explore, but one thing that can bring all that driving to a screeching halt is windshield damage. Whether a rock hit it while you were driving or you came outside to find the windshield smashed, damaged windshields need immediate attention.

When the damage is too severe to repair, the windshield must be completely replaced. If you live in California and find yourself in this situation, you may be wondering if your insurance policy will cover the cost. In this blog, we answer that question and go over the options available to California drivers.

Will My Insurance Cover My Windshield Replacement in California?

The short answer is: it depends. What does it depend on? Whether or not your insurance company covers windshield replacement completely depends on the type of coverage you have and how the damage occurred. We’ve broken it down for you below.

Comprehensive Coverage

If you have a comprehensive insurance policy—also known as “full coverage”—your policy likely protects your vehicle from damage caused by theft, vandalism, natural disasters, weather, hitting an animal, fire, or falling debris. However, it doesn’t cover windshield damage from collisions. For that, you’ll need collision coverage.

Collision Coverage

As the name suggests, collision coverage applies when your windshield is damaged due to a collision. Just keep in mind, this coverage must be in place before the damage occurs. For both comprehensive and collision coverage, you may need to meet a deductible before the insurance company pays for the windshield replacement.

Liability Coverage

This type of insurance typically does not cover your windshield replacement. Liability insurance is designed to pay for damage you cause to someone else’s vehicle, property, or person—not your own.

Full Glass Coverage

Some insurance companies offer an add-on option called “full glass coverage,” sometimes referred to as “full safety glass coverage.” No matter what it's called, it waives the deductible for glass-related claims, including windshield damage.

It’s Unlawful To Drive With Windshield Damage in California

According to California Vehicle Code Section 26710:

“It is unlawful to operate any motor vehicle upon a highway when the windshield or rear window is in such a defective condition as to impair the driver’s vision either to the front or rear.”

So, it’s best to get your windshield replaced within a few days of discovering the damage. Getting a ticket on top of paying for a new windshield is the last thing anyone wants!

Mobile Auto Glass Services Can Help

One of the biggest challenges vehicle owners face when dealing with windshield damage is finding time to get it replaced. That’s where mobile auto glass services come in—they’re convenient, fast, and often economical. They come to you, so you don’t have to wait around in a shop or arrange a ride. Mobile services save you time and travel expenses and allow you to schedule repairs at your convenience. Many even offer same-day service. Plus, you avoid the risk of getting pulled over for driving with a damaged windshield.

Does Your Vehicle Have a Damaged Windshield in the Orange or San Diego County, CA Areas?

If you live, work, or are passing through Orange, San Juan Capistrano, Carlsbad, CA, or surrounding areas and discover your windshield is damaged, contact us at 911 Windshield Repair & Replacement. We’re a family-owned and operated business providing expert windshield replacement services for over twenty years. Get a free quote today!