Having a cracked or damaged windshield is not only annoying, but it can also be dangerous. Having your windshield replaced in itself can be an annoying task, and in some states, it can even be rather expensive. While there are many mobile auto glass companies that will come to your home or work to replace your windshield, this doesn’t always come without its own costs. But, in a few states, you don’t even have to pay your car insurance deductible to get a new windshield, and, if you’re lucky, you can get it done quickly, safely, and almost completely at no cost.

What states offer free windshield replacements?

There are only three states that offer friend windshield replacements with no deductible: Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina. But that might leave you with more questions than it does answers. Are windshield replacements unlimited? Does it affect your insurance? Why do these states provide for free windshield replacement while others don’t? The first important thing to note is that the windshield replacement isn’t completely free, it only works if you have insurance on your vehicle. But, you can’t just have basic insurance on a vehicle, such as what would be the most affordable, basic insurance on a vehicle that is paid off. In order to enjoy the benefits of this policy, you have to have comprehensive insurance coverage on your vehicle.

States that offer separate glass coverage for vehicles

If you don’t live in one of these three states but find yourself wondering if you need insurance that covers glass damage on your vehicle, such as if you live in an area that gets harsh weather like hail, there are still several states that offer separate glass coverage policies for vehicles. This includes Minnesota, New York, Arizona, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. The policies offered in these states may include a free windshield at no cost or with a deductible that can vary, but is typically around $100 — and, depending on what vehicle you drive, that could save you thousands in a new windshield. Comprehensive coverage in some other states may also include windshield replacement as well depending on your plan, so it is important to check with your insurance provider, or keep this in mind when shopping around for a new insurance plan.

Is it dangerous to drive with a cracked windshield?

Driving with a cracked windshield can be dangerous for several reasons, even if the crack is seemingly small. Depending on where the crack or damage is, having a damaged windshield can reduce your visibility, and these cracks typically get bigger and bigger with time, presenting more of a problem. This damage also prevents your windshield from protecting you fully in case of a rollover or crash, and if an airbag is deployed it can push the damaged windshield out place, creating a new danger.

While there are only three states with state-wide requirements for insurance companies that have clients with comprehensive coverage to provide windshield replacements with no deductible, there are still options for drivers insured in other states.