According to Georgia windshield replacement law, insurance companies in the Peach State are not required to offer coverage for glass repair or replacement. If they want to include this coverage in comprehensive policies, however, they are allowed to.
Whether it’s a scratch thanks to a bit of debris on the highway, or a shattered window as the result of a collision, at some point you may find yourself in need of windshield repair or replacement.
While in some states comprehensive insurance will automatically cover these conditions without any deductible, that is not the case in Georgia. Here, you need to make sure you purchase a comprehensive policy that explicitly includes that clause, and even then, there may be a deductible to be paid before insurance kicks in.
For more on windshield replacement laws in Georgia, car insurance comparison app Jerry
has your guide on how to create an car insurance
within these guidelines. Plus, once you have an idea of what will or won’t be covered, the trustworthy broker can help you find a car insurance in Georgia
that includes just what you need. Does Georgia law cover windshield replacement?
Unlike in some states, Georgia does not require insurance companies to provide coverage that includes windshield replacement.
The only insurance required by Georgia law is liability car insurance
. To hit the road as a Georgia driver, all you need is a policy with $25,000 of property damage liability
per accident, $50,000 of bodily injury liability per accident, and $25,000 of bodily injury liability
per person. This liability coverage only pays for the other party's damage and medical bills in the event of an accident where you are found at fault. This coverage will not take care of your own costs.
If you want coverage that might be able to replace your windshield for you regardless of who is at fault, you may want to consider full coverage, which includes comprehensive insurance
and collision insurance
policies. When it comes to windshield replacement, however, even that additional coverage does not guarantee a no-cost service if the glass is damaged or needs to be completely replaced. You may still have to pay a deductible. Plus, you need to keep in mind that comprehensive insurance only protects you in the event of non-collision-related damage such as falling objects or severe weather. If your windshield is damaged in one of these events, your comprehensive coverage may cover a portion or all of the cost depending on your policy. However, if the damage is the result of a collision, you may have to call on another aspect of your full coverage policy, or even the liability insurance of the other driver.
MORE: Collision vs. comprehensive car insurance: How to tell which one you need
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Who pays for windshield replacement in Georgia?
If your windshield is in need of replacement in Georgia, there are a few factors that will determine who has to pay up.
Because Georgia law does not require that insurance companies offer full free replacement of a windshield as part of your comprehensive policy, there are few situations where you may be eligible for one at no cost to you. In order to do so, you’ll need:
To have comprehensive insurance coverage
For the damage to have been sustained in a non-collision event that is indicated on your comprehensive coverage policy
For your insurance company to be one of the few opting to offer zero-deductible
glass replacement
If you fail to meet these requirements, chances are you will have to pay the full or partial cost of your windshield replacement out of pocket.
If your insurance company is able to pay for your service, they also have the right to choose your repair service and mechanic, unless your specific contract states otherwise.
If you do have to pay for the replacement of your windshield, it may cost anywhere from $150 to $200, depending on your vehicle. If you just need a repair, it can cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 without the help of insurance.
MORE: Does insurance cover cracked windshields?
Does Georgia law require auto insurance coverage for windshield repair?
No, the state of Georgia does not require that drivers carry insurance that will cover windshield repair. That would fall under the category of comprehensive insurance, which you do not need to purchase in order to hit the road in the Peach State.
If you’re only looking to purchase the car insurance coverage that is legally required by the state, all you’ll need is liability coverage that meets the 25/50/25 minimums.
Do I need to replace my cracked windshield in Georgia?
Whether or not you need to replace your windshield in the event of damage really depends on the extent of the damage.
The state of Georgia doesn’t explicitly outline in any laws that damaged windshields must be repaired, but it is generally accepted that if a crack is longer than 12 inches, or a chip is larger than a quarter, it may be enough of a safety risk to be deemed irresponsible. In addition, according to Georgia Code § 40-8-73, “No motor vehicle shall be operated with a windshield or rear window having a starburst or spider webbing effect greater than three inches by three inches.”
In these cases, it’s a good idea to get those cracks repaired to ensure an unobstructed view of the road. If you’re not sure whether or not your windshield will require a repair in order to keep you safe, you can always take it to a mechanic who will be able to do a consultation and a quote before moving forward with repairs and replacements.
How to save on windshield insurance in Georgia
Finding a car insurance policy that includes free windshield replacement in Georgia can be tricky. You need to make sure you add comprehensive coverage to your policy, and then make sure your provider includes the zero-deductible replacement in their comprehensive policies.
If you’re looking for a little help when it comes to finding that perfect policy, you can count on Jerry
to give you guidance. Jerry is a car insurance comparison shopping app and a licensed car insurance broker
. With a network of over 55 of the nation's top providers at their disposal, as well as a team of experts with extensive experience, Jerry is designed not only to help you construct the perfect coverage but also to find you the most affordable rate. The best part? Drivers who switch to Jerry save an average of $800 or more a year on car insurance.
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