Does a Cracked Windscreen Count as a Claim?

If your car’s windscreen has sustained damage, such as a crack, it’s essential that you get the problem fixed as soon as possible.

Not only can cracked windscreens make a car illegal to drive if it impacts your field of vision, but even a small crack can become dangerous if ignored. 

A common question many drivers have is whether a cracked windscreen counts as an insurance claim. In this article, The Windscreen Company will examine insurance claims for cracked windscreens in more detail. 

Does a cracked windscreen count as a claim?

Yes, a cracked windscreen will typically count as a claim if you want your insurer to pay for the damage to be fixed. 

However, in many instances, insurers will treat these types of claims differently to standard claims and often no-claim bonuses will be unaffected. 

Every insurance policy is different, so make sure to check your specific one to make sure you know all of its details.  

Windscreen cover as part of your insurance 

Windscreen cover is not always included as standard, and will largely depend on the type of policy you have taken out. 

For example, if you have third-party cover, it is unlikely that windscreen cover will be provided as standard. Instead, it will usually be available as an optional add-on. 

In contrast, comprehensive cover tends to be more extensive and will usually include windscreens. Again, all of this will depend on the individual policy you have, so make sure to check yours. 

How claims impact no-claims bonus

A no-claims bonus refers to a discount that you receive on your insurance premium every year you do not make a claim. For every year you don’t make an insurance claim, the bonus can be used for cheaper premiums in the future, and the longer you go without making a claim, the more this discount will be. With this in mind, many people will not make insurance claims unless it is absolutely necessary in order to keep their bonus. 

Should I claim or go private?

Sometimes, people will consider paying for their windscreen replacements privately rather than going through the process of making an insurance claim. What is best for you will depend on the specific circumstances of your insurance policy. 

Some things to consider when making this decision include:

• Overall cost – Full windscreen replacements are likely to cost more than minor repairs, and using your insurer can help with the cost.

• Excess payment – If the windscreen repairs cost less than your excess (the agreed amount you will pay towards repairs), it may be worth organising private work yourself.

• No-claims bonus – While many insurers won’t take away your no-claims bonus for windscreen repairs or replacements, you should check your policy first. 

• Premium increase – Consider whether making a claim will also increase your future insurance premiums. 

• Car features – If your car’s windscreen has special features, like heated windscreens or ADAS, repairs may be more expensive.

Ultimately, how much the repairs or windscreen replacement costs will dictate whether it is worthwhile going private or claiming through your insurer. These costs will vary significantly, but to get an idea of how much windscreen repairs or replacements tend to be, check out our previous blog on the topic. 

At The Windscreen Company, we’ve spent more than 25 years providing leading windscreen repairs and replacements to people across the West Midlands and South East. We can also assist with insurance claims, so get in touch with our friendly team today to find out more.

The Windscreen Company

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The Windscreen Company, has over 20 years of experience in windscreen repair and replacement. Since 1998, they have been at the forefront of industry innovation, leveraging the latest technology to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.

The Windscreen Company's, help-and-advice pages offer valuable tips and guidance on maintaining vehicle safety through quality windscreen care, while also featuring updated industry realted content.

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