As long as you have comprehensive coverage on your insurance policy, the Kentucky windshield replacement law dictates that policyholders do not have to pay anything out of pocket to have a windshield repaired.

There’s nothing worse than driving down the highway when—suddenly—a small pebble smacks into your windshield. It may have caused just a tiny chip or a much larger crack. Either way, it’s important to get your windshield repaired or replaced right away. Fortunately, if you live in Kentucky, state law might dictate that your windshield be replaced for free.

Here to discuss Kentucky windshield replacement laws is

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Does Kentucky law cover windshield replacement?

Put simply, yes—as long as you have

comprehensive coverage

According to Kentucky state law, all comprehensive policies “shall provide complete coverage for repair or replacement of damaged safety equipment, without regard to any deductible.” That means your repair or replacement will be free of charge—even if you typically have a deductible.

This only applies to comprehensive coverage, not other types, such as liability or

collision coverage

. It also only applies to safety equipment, which includes windshields but not other windows on your car.

Who pays for windshield replacement in Kentucky?

The responsible party here depends on what type of insurance you have and the type of claim you submit!

If you have comprehensive coverage and submit an appropriate claim, your insurance provider will cover 100% of the cost to repair or replace your windshield.

If you submit a claim through your collision coverage after an accident, however, you might be responsible for paying your deductible, should your policy require one. For example, if your vehicle acquires $1,500 worth of damages in a collision, and your deductible is $500, you will have to pay the $500, regardless of whether the windshield was part of these damages.

Finally, if you only have

Kentucky’s minimum levels of liability insurance

—and lack comprehensive insurance altogether—you’ll likely be responsible for the entire cost of repairing or replacing your windshield.

Without insurance, the average cost of a total windshield replacement ranges from about $150 to $500. The exact price depends on the size, make, and model of your vehicle. If you just need to repair windshield cracks or chips, the cost could be anywhere from $50 to $200.

Does Kentucky law require auto insurance coverage for windshield repair?

No. Kentucky only requires drivers to hold

liability coverage

to pay for damage incurred to other people, vehicles, and property, and

personal injury protection (PIP)

, which covers your medical costs. Windshield damage to your vehicle is excluded from these types of coverage.

Comprehensive insurance—which covers windshield damage—is not required by Kentucky state law. It may be required by your lender through the duration of your loan if you finance your vehicle—otherwise, it’s entirely up to you whether or not you purchase it.

Do I need to replace my cracked windshield in Kentucky?

Kentucky’s law states the following regarding chips in cracks in vehicle windshields:

Windshields cannot have damage or discoloration in the area running from within two inches of the top edge to the height of the steering wheel and one inch of the side edges of the windshield.

Cracks without any other intersecting cracks are permitted.

Chips smaller than ¾ of an inch and not within three inches of other cracks or chips are permitted.

Keep in mind that it is generally up to the ticketing officer’s discretion whether a crack or area of damage hinders a driver’s view of the road.

Regardless of whether or not you need a replacement, it’s a good idea to repair your windshield as soon as possible—especially to avoid greater issues down the road.

How to save on windshield insurance in Kentucky

Thanks to Kentucky’s windshield replacement laws, you don’t need to invest in special glass coverage to get your windshield repairs and replacements reimbursed. However, you do need to invest in comprehensive coverage.

By shopping with Jerry, you can find a comprehensive policy customized for you—and save a bit of money in the process.

It’s this simple: download the Jerry app or go to getjerry.com. In less than 45 seconds, Jerry collects all of your information from your existing insurer. Choose a competitive quote from top insurance companies, and Jerry takes care of the rest—securing your new policy and helping you cancel your old one upon request.

No long forms. No calling around. No hard work. Just savings. The average Jerry user saves over $800 a year on car insurance.