What Should I Do If I Suffer Windscreen Damage Abroad?

Windscreen damage can be stressful at the best of times, but when it happens abroad, it adds a whole new dimension to the issue. From language barriers to being unfamiliar with the local services, it can feel overwhelming, and you may be unsure what to do. 

In this article, the team here at The Windscreen Company will guide you through the steps you should take if you suffer windscreen damage while in a different country.

What should I do if I suffer windscreen damage abroad?

If your car has suffered windscreen damage, like a chip or crack, while driving on foreign roads, the first thing you should do is pull over at a safe place. Then, you need to follow these steps:

Assess the damage

Check whether the damage is a chip, a crack or a full breakage. If the damage is minor, it may be drivable in the short term, but it is not advisable. However, if visibility is impaired in any way, then you must not continue to drive the vehicle until it is seen by a professional.  

Check insurance details or rental agreement 

Review both your travel insurance and car insurance documents to check what is covered. Many car insurance policies will cover windscreen damage, but this will depend on the specifics of your policy. 

If you’re in a rental car, you should check the agreement to see what you’re responsible for. Sometimes, windscreen damage is not included, so it is worth double-checking. 

Contact assistance services 

If you’re in a rental car, call the company’s emergency line immediately. If it’s your own car, your insurance company will likely have an international helpline that can offer assistance.

Locate a windscreen specialist 

If the damage is so severe that the work can’t wait until you’re back home, you’ll need to find professional windscreen services where you are. Your insurer may have a list of approved garages they can recommend, so check with them first. 

Confirm costs and coverage 

Always make sure to get a clear quote before agreeing to any work. Also, ensure you fully clarify with your insurer or rental company who will be covering the costs of the work. 

Arrange transport while the damage is fixed 

If necessary, arrange alternative transport while the work is being carried out. Different companies will have different turnaround times, so make sure you inquire about how long it is going to take.

Keep all paperwork 

Hold on to all receipts and invoices relating to the work. These will be essential to any insurance claims you may need to make when you get back to the UK.

Ways to avoid windscreen damage when travelling abroad

When driving on foreign roads, you should take similar precautions as you would at home. These include:

• Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. This should be at least a two-second gap according to the Highway Code.
• Avoid poorly maintained roads if possible. 
• Don’t park your vehicle in direct sunlight.
• Be mindful of larger vehicles, such as trucks, which are more likely to cause debris to flick up onto your windscreen.

Whether you’ve recently returned from a trip abroad with a damaged windscreen or your glass has become chipped or cracked here in the UK, The Windscreen Company is here to get you back on the road in no time. Working across the West Midlands and the South East, we offer 30-minute drive-away times and a fully mobile service. For more information or to get a free quote, contact our team today. 

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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