How Are Glass and Weather Damages Handled Under Comprehensive?

Glass cracks and weather damage can happen suddenly—whether it’s a rock on the highway or a hailstorm in your driveway. These types of issues are common and costly, but they’re typically not covered by basic liability insurance.

Comprehensive coverage is what steps in. It’s designed to pay for non-collision damage, and that includes broken windows, windshields, and weather-related destruction.This matters when you’re deciding whether to add or keep comprehensive coverage. You might think about it the next time your area is expecting a big storm—or when that tiny windshield chip suddenly becomes a long crack.

What Kind of Glass Damage Is Covered?

Comprehensive insurance usually covers damage to your car’s glass, including:

Cracked or shattered windshields
Broken side or rear windows
Damage from flying debris or vandalism
Glass affected by falling objects like tree limbs

Coverage applies whether the damage happened while driving or while the car was parked. In most cases, you’ll need to pay a deductible unless your policy includes a specific waiver for glass repairs.

Tip: Some insurers offer full glass coverage add-ons that waive the deductible for windshield repair or replacement. These are worth considering if you drive frequently on gravel roads or highways.

What About Weather Damage?

Weather is unpredictable—and sometimes devastating. Comprehensive coverage includes a wide range of natural events:

Hailstorms denting the hood or roof
Flooding that damages the engine or interior
Wind that knocks over trees or power lines onto your vehicle
Ice storms causing glass breakage or panel damage
Lightning strikes and fire caused by extreme heat

Type of Damage	Covered Under Comprehensive?
Windshield cracked by rock	Yes
Hail damage to body or roof	Yes
Flood water damage	Yes
Scratches from fallen branches	Yes
Worn wipers damaging glass over time	No (wear and tear)

Note: Damage from regular use, aging, or poor maintenance—such as scratches from worn-out wipers—is not covered. These are considered preventable.

Filing a Claim and Paying the Deductible

If you file a claim for glass or weather damage, your insurer will typically send you to an approved repair shop or allow you to choose your own. You’ll pay your deductible first, and the insurer covers the remaining cost.

For minor windshield chips, repair is often covered in full without a deductible
For full windshield replacement, expect to pay your comprehensive deductible unless waived
For major storm damage, your payout is based on the actual cash value of the vehicle

Caution: If the cost of repair is close to or less than your deductible, filing a claim may not make sense. Always get an estimate first.

Glass and Weather Claims Are Where Comprehensive Really Shines