Is a Pitted Windshield Covered by Insurance?

A pitted windshield can be a frustrating problem for drivers. The pits, scratches and hazing caused by sand, gravel, and other debris can obstruct vision and cause glare issues. Fortunately, insurance may cover repairing or replacing a pitted windshield, depending on your policy and the cause of damage.

What Causes Pitting and Hazing on a Windshield?

There are several potential causes of pits, scratches and hazing on a windshield:

• Driving on gravel or dirt roads – Gravel and dust kicked up while driving can sandblast the windshield over time, leaving tiny pits and scratches.

• Environmental factors – High winds, sandstorms, etc. can blast debris that damages windshields. Parking unsheltered also exposes cars to these elements.

• Wiper blades – Grit and dirt on wiper blades or worn blades can scratch glass when used without lubrication.

• Hard water – Mineral deposits left when water evaporates can etch glass.

• Road treatments – Sand or salt used on winter roads can damage windshields.

Factors Impacting Insurance Coverage

Whether and how much insurance covers windshield repair/replacement depends on several factors:

• Cause of damage – Damage from environmental causes may be covered, while negligence may not be. Gradual wear and tear over time generally isn’t covered.

• Type of policy – Comprehensive coverage is most likely to cover windshield damage, while liability only policies won’t.

• Deductible – You may need to pay a deductible first, often $100-$500 for windshield repair/replacement.

• Type of repair needed – Partial repairable damage may have lower deductibles than full replacement.

Does Insurance Cover Pitted Windshield Repair or Replacement?

Many policies will cover repairing or replacing a pitted windshield, but there are caveats:

• Minor pitting may be repairable if it hasn’t penetrated the glass layers. This is typically covered by insurance, sometimes without a deductible.

• Severe deep pitting often requires full windshield replacement, which is covered but you’ll likely pay the deductible.

• Hazing and surface damage that can be polished out may be covered, but this method isn’t always effective long-term.

• Windshield repair coverage is limited per year, so make sure you don’t exceed limits.

• Not all damage like cosmetic etching or gradual wear and tear will be covered.

Tips for Coverage of Pitted Windshield

• Inspect your policy and understand windshield coverage and limitations.

• Take photos documenting damage to show insurance.

• Have windshield repair done first if possible, before needing full replacement.

• Ask insurance if pits/scratches can be repaired before assuming replacement is needed.

• Pay out of pocket for minor repairs below your deductible to avoid claims.

• Act quickly when you notice pitting or hazing to prevent it worsening.

With the right insurance coverage, you don’t have to live with an obscured pitted windshield. Check your policy specifics and have potential damage assessed by a glass repair specialist. They can determine if your pitted windshield qualifies for insurance-covered repair or replacement.