Windscreen Woes: Claims and Cover

A seemingly minor chip on your windscreen can quickly escalate into a significant problem, not just for your visibility but also for your wallet. Understanding windscreen cover and how to manage chips and cracks is crucial for any vehicle owner. In this article, we'll delve into the frequency of windscreen claims, explore what constitutes windscreen cover, and provide practical advice on what to do if your windscreen sustains damage. We'll also offer expert maintenance tips to help prevent such issues in the first place.

Windscreen claims are, in fact, extremely common. Many insurance providers, like Diamond, report paying out for thousands of glass-related claims annually. This prevalence underscores the importance of being adequately insured. A small chip, often caused by flying debris from other vehicles, can rapidly spread due to temperature fluctuations or vibrations, transforming into a larger crack that compromises the structural integrity of the windscreen.

Is Your Windscreen Covered?

The first question on many drivers' minds is whether their current insurance policy includes windscreen cover. For many comprehensive car insurance policies, windscreen repair and replacement are often included as standard. However, this isn't universal. On other types of policies, such as third-party or third-party, fire and theft, windscreen cover might be an optional extra that can be purchased for an additional premium. It is essential to check your specific policy schedule to confirm the exact coverage you have. Don't assume; verify.

When making a claim for windscreen repair or replacement, there's typically an excess to pay. This excess is the amount you contribute towards the cost of the claim. For instance, with Diamond's Windscreen Cover, an excess of £115 may apply for a full windscreen replacement, while a smaller excess, often around £25, applies for windscreen repairs. Again, always refer to your policy documents for precise excess figures relevant to your coverage.

What to Do If Your Windscreen is Chipped or Cracked

The causes of windscreen damage are varied. A common culprit is a small stone or other road debris hitting the glass at speed. Cracks can also develop over time. A combination of factors, such as extreme temperature changes – for example, a cold windscreen being hit by a warm heater – can weaken the glass, leading to unsightly and potentially dangerous cracks. These cracks not only impair visibility but can also be a reason for your vehicle to fail its MOT test.

If you discover a chip or a crack in your windscreen and you are insured with a provider that offers windscreen cover, the process for making a claim is usually straightforward:

1. Contact your insurer: The first step is to contact your insurance provider. This is typically done via a dedicated claims line. For example, you might call a number like 0333 220 2026.
2. Approved Repairer: Your insurer will likely put you in touch with their approved network of repairers. These specialists have the expertise and materials to carry out professional windscreen repairs or replacements.
3. Schedule an Appointment: You'll then arrange an appointment with the approved repairer to have the necessary work carried out. This can often be done at your home or workplace for added convenience.
4. Understand Your Excess: As mentioned earlier, be prepared to pay the applicable excess. If the damage is repaired, the excess is usually lower than if the entire windscreen needs to be replaced.

The Importance of Prompt Action

It's crucial to understand that a small windscreen chip can rapidly develop into a larger crack. This is why addressing chips as soon as they are discovered is highly recommended. Delaying a repair could mean that a simple, less expensive chip repair turns into a costly full windscreen replacement. Furthermore, driving with a damaged windscreen is not just a matter of aesthetics; it's a significant safety hazard. Reduced visibility can lead to accidents, and as previously noted, a damaged windscreen can cause your vehicle to fail its mandatory MOT test.

Using Approved Repairers

Insurers often stipulate that to receive the maximum payout for windscreen damage, you must use their approved repair network. If you opt to use a repairer not on their approved list, your insurer may cap the amount they will pay out, potentially leaving you to cover a substantial portion of the cost yourself. For instance, some insurers might limit their payout to a maximum of £50 if an unapproved repairer is used.

Top Windscreen Maintenance Tips from the Experts

To help you keep your windscreen in the best possible condition and minimise the risk of damage, here are some expert maintenance tips from windscreen suppliers like Autoglass:

• Prevent Freezing: On frosty nights, use a windscreen cover. This simple measure can prevent the glass from freezing, thus reducing the risk of cracks caused by expansion and contraction.
• Defrosting Safely: Never pour hot water directly onto a frozen windscreen. The sudden temperature shock can cause the glass to crack. Avoid using sharp objects to chip away ice, as these can also scratch or damage the glass.
• Patience is Key: When defrosting your vehicle, be patient. Use a de-icer spray and a suitable ice scraper. Allow the vehicle's heater to warm the windscreen gradually.
• Ensure Clear Visibility: Do not drive off until the windscreen is completely clear of ice, mist, or condensation. If your visibility becomes severely impaired while driving, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible.
• Fluid Levels: Keep your washer fluid topped up. This is essential for cleaning your windscreen while driving, especially in grimy conditions. Ensure you also use the correct type of anti-freeze for your climate.
• Wiper Maintenance: Replace your windscreen wipers as soon as they show any signs of wear and tear. Worn wipers can smear, reducing visibility, and can even scratch the glass if the rubber is perished.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How often do windscreen claims happen?
A: Windscreen claims are very common. Many insurance companies handle thousands of such claims each year due to chips and cracks caused by road debris or temperature changes.

Q2: What's the difference between a chip repair and a replacement?
A: A chip repair typically involves injecting a resin into the damaged area to prevent it from spreading and restore the windscreen's strength. A replacement is necessary when the damage is too extensive, such as a crack that reaches the edge of the windscreen or multiple chips.

Q3: Is it always cheaper to repair a chip than replace the windscreen?
A: Generally, yes. Chip repairs are significantly less expensive than full windscreen replacements. Furthermore, many insurance policies waive or reduce the excess for chip repairs, making it a more cost-effective option.

Q4: Can I claim for damage to my car's other glass, like side windows or mirrors?
A: This depends on your policy. Some comprehensive policies extend glass cover to side windows, rear windows, and mirrors. It's important to check your policy schedule for specifics.

Q5: What happens if my windscreen is damaged but I don't have specific windscreen cover?
A: If you don't have specific windscreen cover or it's not included in your comprehensive policy, you would typically have to pay for the repair or replacement out of your own pocket. You might be able to make a claim under your general car insurance, but this would likely involve paying your main policy excess, which is usually much higher than the windscreen excess, and could also affect your no-claims bonus.

In conclusion, understanding your car insurance policy, particularly regarding windscreen cover, is vital. Windscreen damage is a frequent occurrence, and being prepared with adequate coverage and knowledge of the claims process can save you considerable time and money. By following expert maintenance tips, you can also minimise the chances of encountering these frustrating and potentially costly issues.

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