Does Safeco Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement?

Having to replace your windshield can be an unexpected and costly expense. That’s why many drivers want to know: does Safeco insurance cover windshield replacement?

The short answer is yes, Safeco auto insurance does cover windshield repair and replacement if you have the right coverage. Keep reading to learn more about how Safeco handles windshield claims and what your policy options are

Overview of Safeco Auto Insurance Coverage for Windshield Damage

Safeco is one of the largest auto insurance providers in the U.S., serving over 3 million policyholders nationwide. Most Safeco auto insurance policies include comprehensive and collision coverage, which will pay for windshield repair or replacement resulting from damage like cracks, chips, and breaks.

Here are some key things to know about filing a windshield claim with Safeco:

• You must have comprehensive coverage to get windshield replacement covered. Collision only covers damage from a crash

• There is usually a deductible, often $100-$200. Safeco waives the deductible for windshield repairs.

• Safeco partners with Safelite AutoGlass for fast repaired/replacement. You can also use your preferred shop.

• Additional policy features like glass repair endorsements can reduce or eliminate your windshield deductible.

Always review your specific Safeco policy to confirm you have the right coverages and understand any deductibles that will apply for windshield replacement.

Does Comprehensive Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement?

Comprehensive coverage is required if you want windshield repair or replacement covered by your Safeco policy. Comprehensive protects against damage from non-collision events like vandalism, weather, fire, theft, and yes – cracked or broken windshields

Here’s a breakdown of how comprehensive coverage works for windshield claims with Safeco:

• Covers glass damage from rocks, debris, weather, vandalism, and more

• Subject to your comprehensive deductible (often $100-$500)

• Safelite or your preferred shop can do the work

• Deductible is waived if the windshield can be repaired vs. replaced

So if a rock chip suddenly turns into a major crack across your windshield, comprehensive insurance will pay for the windshield replacement minus your deductible.

Is There a Deductible for Windshield Replacement?

With Safeco, you will need to pay your comprehensive deductible when your windshield is replaced. Comp deductibles are commonly $100, $250, $500 or $1,000.

The good news is that Safeco waives your deductible if your windshield can be repaired instead of replaced. Repairs like filling a chip or patching a small crack are often free with no deductible when done through Safelite.

You can lower your windshield deductible or even eliminate it by adding these endorsements to your Safeco policy:

• Glass Repair Deductible Waiver – Waives deductible for all glass repairs

• Glass Repair/Replacement Deductible Waiver – Waives deductible for all glass repairs and replacements

• Glass Repair/Replacement Zero Deductible – Windshield repairs and replacements are covered in full

Talk to your independent Safeco agent to learn more about policy options to reduce your out-of-pocket costs for windshield repair or replacement.

Does Collision Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement?

Collision insurance only pays for damage caused by a vehicle crash. Cracks or chips from flying road debris, vandalism, weather, and other non-crash situations would not be covered.

That’s why you need comprehensive car insurance for windshield repair or replacement coverage with Safeco. Collision is not enough on its own.

Here are some examples to show the difference:

• A rock kicked up from a passing truck chips your windshield – Comprehensive covers this, not collision.

• You hit a pole and your windshield shatters – Collision insurance will pay for the damaged windshield.

• A tree branch falls and cracks your parked car’s windshield – Comprehensive covers the repair, not collision.

In nearly all windshield claims situations, comprehensive is the coverage you need with Safeco, not collision.

How to File a Windshield Claim with Safeco

Filing a windshield insurance claim with Safeco is quick and easy. You can choose to have the repairs or replacement done through Safelite or a shop of your choice.

To file a claim through Safelite:

• Call 1-877-762-3101 or start your claim at safelite.com/safeco

• Provide your policy and contact info and schedule service

• Only pay your applicable deductible (if any) at time of service

To file a claim through Safeco:

• Start your claim online at safeco.com or call 1-800-332-3226

• Submit photos of the damage and required documents

• Select your preferred repair shop

• Safeco will contact the shop to arrange payment after your deductible

No matter which process you use, Safelite or your chosen repair shop will bill Safeco directly less your deductible. Make sure you understand your deductible amount before authorizing any repairs.

Adding Glass Coverage Endorsements to Your Safeco Policy

As we mentioned earlier, you have options to reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket costs for windshield repair/replacement with Safeco. Glass coverage endorsements are a relatively inexpensive way to enhance your protection.

Here are some popular additional glass features you can get with Safeco:

• Glass Deductible Waiver – Waives your deductible for all glass repairs

• Glass Repair and Replacement – Waives your deductible for all glass repairs and replacements

• Glass Repair and Replacement Zero Deductible – $0 deductible for all glass repairs and replacements

• Increased Glass Coverage limits – Covers glass replacement costs beyond your policy limits

Discuss adding one of these endorsements with your independent Safeco agent to maximize your windshield benefits. The small additional premium could save you hundreds on your next windshield claim.

Windshield Replacement Costs – How Much Does Safeco Pay?

How much Safeco pays for windshield replacement or repair depends on several factors:

• Your comprehensive deductible amount

• Your policy limits for glass coverage

• The cost to replace/repair your particular windshield

• Any endorsements that reduce or waive your deductible

Windshield replacement costs can range from $200 for a basic auto glass replacement up to $1,500 or more for luxury or specialty vehicles. Safelite prices are generally very competitive.

Safeco will pay the total cost of the covered windshield repair or replacement minus your applicable deductible. So if you have a $500 deductible and a new windshield costs $750, you would owe $500 and Safeco would pay the shop $250.

Safelite – Safeco’s Preferred Windshield Repairer

We’ve mentioned Safelite a few times already as Safeco’s preferred auto glass provider. Here’s some key information about using Safelite for your windshield claim:

• Nationwide network of over 400 repair facilities and mobile units

• Highly trained technicians perform high-quality work

• All repairs/replacements guaranteed as long as you own the vehicle

• Appointments scheduled quickly, often same or next day

• Work can be performed at your home, work, or other location

• You only pay your deductible, Safelite bills Safeco for the balance

While you can use any shop you choose, Safelite makes the claims process fast and convenient. Their national buying power also helps keep costs down.

Windshield Protection Tips

While Safeco insurance provides valuable coverage if your windshield becomes damaged, prevention is always best. Here are some useful tips to help avoid cracks and chips in your windshield:

• Stay at least 3 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you to minimize gravel hits

• Avoid following trucks or construction vehicles that can kick up debris

• Get small chips filled quickly to prevent spreading

• Don’t slam doors or place heavy objects on the glass

• Regularly inspect your windshield for any new dings or cracks

• Replace worn or dirty wiper blades so they don’t scratch the glass

• Consider a glass protection film which can prevent chips from spreading

And make sure you have comprehensive auto insurance from Safeco! It provides affordable protection against windshield damage so you can get your glass repaired or replaced with minimal out-of-pocket expense.

The Bottom Line

• Comprehensive insurance covers windshield damage – collision only covers crash-related damage

• There is usually a deductible, but it is waived for repairs done through Safelite

• Additional endorsements can reduce or eliminate your deductible

• Safelite provides fast, quality, cost-effective service as Safeco’s preferred vendor

• Preventative care is crucial to avoid cracks and chips

Windshield damage is one of the most common comprehensive claims. Safeco provides valuable protection