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Category: Uncategorized Blog

We’re here to help you learn how to get the best auto hail damage repair.
Because let’s face it, we can’t live without our cars (not easily at least).

Does Auto Insurance Cover Windshield Repair for Minor Chips or Full Replacement?

Windshield damage is a frequent issue for drivers, caused by factors like debris, weather, or minor accidents. Such damage can impact driving safety, as a compromised windshield reduces visibility and weakens the vehicle’s structure. Generally, whether your car insurance policy covers windshield repair or replacement depends on your policy type. Liability insurance, for instance, does not cover windshield repair or replacement as it only addresses damages caused to others. Collision coverage may cover windshield replacement but typically only if the damage is due to a car accident. Comprehensive insurance, however, usually covers both windshield repair and replacement and often offers flexible deductibles. Additionally, glass-specific add-ons can provide more focused coverage, often with reduced or waived deductibles. Jump Here: Understanding Your Insurance Policy for Windshield Coverage Types of Windshield Damage Coverage for Minor Chips and Cracks Coverage for Full Windshield Replacement Factors That Affect Windshield Coverage Frequently Asked Questions Understanding Your Insurance Policy for Windshield Coverage Understanding which type of car insurance covers windshield repair or replacement can help you avoid unexpected costs. The table below provides a breakdown of common insurance types and what each generally covers for windshield damage. Insurance Type Covers Windshield Repair? Covers Full Windshield Replacement? Details Liability Insurance ❌No ❌No Liability insurance does not cover windshield repair or replacement; it only covers damages you cause to others. Collision Insurance ❌No, unless accident-related ✅Yes, if windshield damage is due to a collision Covers windshield replacement only when damage results directly from a collision with another vehicle or object. Comprehensive Insurance ✅Yes ✅Yes Comprehensive policies typically cover both repair and replacement for windshield damage, often with flexible deductibles. Glass Coverage Add-Ons ✅Yes ✅Yes Optional glass add-ons specifically cover windshield and other glass repairs or replacements, often with reduced or waived deductibles. Types of Windshield Damage Windshield damage can vary from minor chips to full-blown cracks, each requiring different repair or replacement approaches: Minor Chips: Small chips are often caused by flying rocks or debris and can usually be repaired without needing a full replacement. Chips are minor enough not to impact visibility or the windshield’s integrity significantly. Full Cracks: Larger cracks are more severe and often result from more substantial impacts. These cracks can grow over time, compromising the driver’s visibility and potentially leading to complete windshield failure. Understanding the type and severity of the damage can influence how and if the insurance covers repairs. Insurers may have specific guidelines, often covering minor repairs at little or no cost while requiring more documentation and higher deductibles for full replacements. Coverage for Minor Chips and Cracks For minor chips and small cracks, insurance coverage can vary. Here are some key considerations: When Insurance Covers Chip Repairs: Comprehensive insurance often covers chip repairs if they meet certain criteria, like being small enough to be repaired effectively and not obstructing visibility. Some insurance providers even waive the deductible for minor repairs to encourage early action and prevent further damage. Benefits of Early Repair: Repairing chips early can help avoid the need for a full replacement. Insurance companies may prefer to cover smaller repairs as they’re usually cheaper than replacements, benefiting both the insurer and the policyholder. Typical Deductibles for Chip Repair: Depending on the insurance provider, chip repairs may come with lower deductibles than full windshield replacements, reducing out-of-pocket costs for minor fixes. Coverage for Full Windshield Replacement In certain situations, a full windshield replacement is necessary, especially when: The windshield has large cracks that impair visibility. There is damage on the driver’s side that disrupts vision. Cracks or damage compromise the structural integrity of the glass. Comprehensive insurance is the most likely policy to cover a full replacement, but it typically includes a deductible. The exact cost will depend on the policy terms and whether the policyholder has glass-specific coverage. State-Specific “Zero-Deductible” Laws Unlike states such as Florida, South Carolina, and Kentucky, which mandate zero-deductible windshield replacements with comprehensive insurance, Colorado does not have such a law. In Colorado, you may still be able to get zero-deductible coverage if you purchase additional glass coverage through your insurance provider. Always check with your insurer for available options. Factors That Affect Windshield Coverage Multiple factors can impact the coverage you receive for windshield repairs or replacement: Deductible Amounts and Policy Details: Insurance providers set their own deductible levels, which can range from minimal to substantial amounts depending on the policy. Insurance Provider Policies: Each insurance company has different policies regarding windshield repairs, especially concerning whether they cover third-party shops or only certain approved repair services. Choice of Repair Shop: In some cases, choosing a repair shop outside the insurance company’s preferred network can impact coverage or reimbursement amounts. While third-party shops may offer flexibility, using insurance-preferred shops can sometimes make the claims process smoother and more cost-effective. Conclusion Windshield damage can be an unexpected and sometimes costly problem. Knowing whether your auto insurance covers repairs or replacements and understanding the nuances of your policy can make a significant difference when handling these issues. Comprehensive insurance is typically the best choice for windshield protection, especially in states with zero-deductible laws for replacements. As always, reviewing your own policy details and consulting with your insurance agent will give you a clear picture of your coverage options for any potential windshield mishaps. Frequently Asked Questions Are cracked windshields covered under warranty? Most manufacturer warranties cover cracked windshields only if caused by a manufacturing defect, like material or installation issues. Damage from external factors (e.g., road debris) typically isn’t covered. Some brands offer optional windshield protection plans: for instance, BMW’s plan covers minor chips and cracks from road debris but excludes cracks over six inches. Hyundai, Subaru, and Ford offer similar plans with specific coverage limits. If your car has advanced driver-assistance features integrated into the windshield, such as lane-keeping cameras or autopilot systems, it’s important to ask about coverage for recalibration, as this can vary by manufacturer and plan. To confirm specific coverage, it’s best to consult your warranty terms or speak with your dealership.

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When Not to File an Auto Insurance Claim [How Small Claims Can Impact Your Rates]

Filing an auto insurance claim can seem like a straightforward step after an accident, but knowing when not to file can be just as crucial. Many assume that only major claims affect premiums, but even minor claims can lead to increased rates. In fact, it’s often the reporting of an incident, rather than the insurance claim itself, that triggers higher premiums. Insurers frequently adjust rates simply because an accident was reported, regardless of the severity. This article explores the pros and cons of filing a claim, clears up some common misconceptions, and offers practical advice for various situations to help you make a smart decision. Jump Here: How Small Claims Can Impact Your Insurance Rates Don’t Make This Mistake When Not to File an Auto Insurance Claim #1 Repairs Cost Less than or Near Your Deductible #2 Minor Cosmetic Damage #3 Risk of Losing Your No-Claims Bonus The Hidden Costs of Filing Small Claims When You Should Definitely File a Claim How Small Claims Can Impact Your Insurance Rates  It may come as a surprise that even small claims can raise your rates, as insurers view any accident report as an added risk. Understanding this potential impact can help you make a well-informed choice about whether a car insurance claim is worthwhile. How Insurers Calculate Risk Insurance companies set premiums based on several risk factors, including driving record, frequency of claims, and accident reports. Even minor accidents can signal a higher risk level to insurers, leading to potential rate increases to cover anticipated future claims. Why Small Claims Matter Contrary to popular belief, small claims—or even reports of minor car accidents—can influence premiums. Insurers tend to factor any reported incident into premium calculations, even if it’s minor or not your fault. Knowing that small claims can increase your premiums helps in making more strategic decisions about when it’s best to avoid filing a claim. Don’t Make This Mistake There’s an important distinction between merely reporting an accident and filing an actual claim. Sometimes, just notifying your insurer of an incident (due to police involvement or third-party reports) can lead to a premium hike. If the insurer is already aware of the accident, not filing a claim might not prevent a rate increase. In these cases, filing a claim could actually be beneficial, as the rate impact is already in place, and the claim can help cover repair or medical costs. When Not to File an Auto Insurance Claim For some situations, covering repair costs out-of-pocket directly at a repair shop rather than filing a claim can be advantageous, especially if the accident hasn’t been reported or the insurer is not yet aware. Here are scenarios where forgoing a claim could save you more in the long run. #1 Repairs Cost Less than or Near Your Deductible If your repair costs are close to or just slightly over your deductible, filing a claim may not be worth the potential premium increase. For instance, if your repair estimate is $1,200 and your deductible is $1,000, you’d only receive $200 in coverage—but might face a premium hike that costs much more over time. In these cases, paying out-of-pocket could be a wiser choice, provided the accident hasn’t been reported. #2 Minor Cosmetic Damage Filing claims for minor cosmetic damage, like small dents or scratches, can raise premiums unnecessarily. Such claims can also show up on vehicle history reports (e.g., Carfax), potentially lowering the car’s resale value more than the cost of the damage itself. In most cases, it’s more cost-effective to pay for minor cosmetic repairs yourself to avoid long-term financial impact. #3 Risk of Losing Your No-Claims Bonus Many insurers offer no-claims bonuses or discounts to policyholders with claim-free records, which can save $200-$500 annually. Losing this bonus due to a small claim can have a greater long-term cost than covering a minor repair yourself. This bonus also helps maintain low rates when switching insurers. By avoiding small claims, you can keep this discount intact, especially if the insurer isn’t aware of the incident. The Hidden Costs of Filing Small Claims Deductibles on Multiple Claims: Each accident requires its own deductible, which can add up quickly. For frequent minor incidents, paying out-of-pocket for repairs could save money and help avoid additional rate increases. Risk of Policy Cancellation or Non-Renewal: Filing frequent small claims can make you appear high-risk to insurers, potentially leading to policy cancellation or non-renewal. Even minor claims, if frequent, indicate a higher risk level, which may affect your ability to retain coverage. The Hassle Factor: Small claims can involve considerable paperwork, inspections, and follow-up, which can be time-consuming. For minor damage, consider if the effort involved is worth the potential payout and rate increase. When You Should Definitely File a Claim While there are cases where avoiding a claim is beneficial, some situations require filing to ensure adequate financial and legal protection. Major Accidents or Costly Repairs: When repair costs far exceed your deductible, filing a claim is usually the best route. Significant damage is what insurance is meant to cover, so in these cases, a claim is likely worthwhile. Injuries or Medical Expenses: If anyone involved is injured, filing a claim is essential. Medical expenses can add up quickly, and insurance coverage can help manage these costs. The Other Driver is at Fault: If another driver is responsible, filing a claim helps ensure their insurance covers the damages. Even if your insurance is impacted, it’s important to hold the at-fault party accountable. Liability Concerns: If there’s a chance of a lawsuit or liability, it’s crucial to file a claim for legal protection. Your insurance policy provides liability coverage, and filing safeguards you financially against potential claims from others. Conclusion When deciding whether to file an auto insurance claim, consider the long-term financial impact rather than focusing solely on immediate benefits. Not all accidents require claims, especially if they’re minor and can be managed without involving insurance. Evaluate your specific situation carefully, weigh the costs of repairs against

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man-fixing-car-dent-by-himself

10 Most Wanted FAQs about Paintless Dent Repair

StormWise’s excellent reviews and hundreds of 5-star ratings make us regular recipients of complicated questions regarding what paintless dent repair can fix. Because we get a lot of the same questions, we have put together this guide to explain exactly what paintless dent repair can and can’t fix.  If you find yourself in a situation with a small dent or light collision, it may not be something you necessarily need (or want) to submit to your insurance company. In general, dent removal is much more cost-effective than having your car fixed at an auto body shop. The below guide will help you tremendously if you’re trying to consider if dent removal service may be an option for you. Jump to: -> What panels on a car can PDR usually fix? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Door Dings? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair be done to bumpers? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Motorcycle gas tanks? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Refrigerator Doors? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Shopping Cart Dings? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Light collision damage? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Hail Damage? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Rock chips? -> Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Body Line Dents? What panels on a car can PDR usually fix? If you’ve got a dent in one of the below panels, paintless dent repair may be an option for you. Hoods – generally speaking, dents of all shapes and sizes can be fixed on the hood of a car/truck/SUV. There are a few exceptions to this rule,  There are some specialty hoods that have what we call a “honeycomb” reinforcement on the back side of the hood that we have a hard time fixing due to the fact that there are certain portions of the hood we can’t get behind. We’ve seen this in a few models of Cadillacs and also newer Ford Mustangs.  Dents on the tip of the hood may also be a little more complicated, and depending on the size may or may not be able to be fixed with PDR. Roofs – almost all types of roof dents can be fixed with PDR. It will typically involve dropping your headliner for access, or if the dent is small enough, we can forgo the headliner access and use the glue pull technique  Doors – most of the time dents on doors can be fixed, except in situations where there’s reinforcement preventing access to the back side of the panel. This reinforcement is typically found on the top of the door panel, right under the window.  Fenders – usually we can just take out your headlight to access dents on the fenders, so these dents are pretty easy  Quarter Panels – most of the time we can access the back side of the quarter panel by removing the tail light, going in through your trunk space, or by removing interior quarter panel trim pieces.  Roof Rails – this is the panel on your car that blends into the quarter panel and is positioned between your roof and doors. There are reinforcements behind roof rails that really limit the size of the dents that can be fixed, as everything has to be glue pulled on a car’s roof rails. Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Door Dings? Absolutely. That’s really one of the most common uses for paintless dent repair services. It’s important to caution here that there is always a limit to what PDR can effectively fix. If the paint is cracked or damaged in some way, many repair shops will decline the repair due to the fact that the paint damage could be exacerbated by the processes PDR entails in the repair process.  Dent repair can either be performed on the back side of the panel by removing an adjacent interior trim panel, or it can be performed on top of the dent using a glue pull technique. Glue pull is only used when access cannot be readily obtained or safely manufactured to get to the back side of the panel for some reason or another (think roof rails, where there’s reinforcement behind the panel). Especially when glue pull will be required, there can be no paint damage to the dent for PDR to be able to be used, otherwise, the paint will simply pull off and no change to the dent will occur. We call this “pulling paint” in the industry. Pulling paint is always a risk when glue pull is performed, which is why it’s only ever done when there’s no other way to fix the dent. Typically your PDR specialist will advise you of this risk before the work is begun so you can make the best decision on whether to roll the dice with PDR or just head straight to a collision center. Can Paintless Dent Repair be done to bumpers? Unfortunately no. Typically bumpers are made of plastic, and paintless dent repair only works on materials that have Metal Memory, such as steel and aluminum. Anytime you have a dent on a material like plastic, typically that part will need to be replaced or have body repair and paint work performed. If you’re really seeking an economical repair on a plastic bumper that has a dent, you could possibly find a collision center that’s willing to skim the bumper with a plastic filler such as bondo, and then you would still need to paint the bumper to finalize the repair. This is not a common practice, as typically the labor that would be needed to get that bumper straight prior to paint will equal or exceed the cost to simply replace the bumper. But again, you can drive around to paint and auto body shops to see if anyone will do it for cheaper than the replacement cost. And if you do find someone to do that, usually there will be no warranty. Can Paintless Dent Repair fix Motorcycle gas tanks? This is an interesting question

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taking photos for insurance hail claim

Taking Pictures For Insurance Claims In The Age Of COVID-19 – 5 Tips to Solve Hard To See Hail Damage On Car

We get it…it’s SO frustrating. You have had a hail repair specialist look at your car, and they’re saying you’re looking at $7,000 to $8,000 in damage. You then send the photos to your insurance adjuster, but their estimate comes in at $980. “What the heck?” you’re thinking. “How am I going to get this thing fixed?” We hear it all the time. What’s causing this is the fact that hail damage on cars is difficult to see, whether in person or via photos/virtual meetings. So how do you actually solve hard to see hail damage on car? Jump To: -> What to Know About Car Insurance Photo Inspection -> How to Take Pictures to Show Hard-to-See Hail Damage on Cars Hail damage—like any other type of car damage—must be fixed ASAP, especially since it can further devalue your car if it’s not repaired for a while.  However, if it’s hard to see the hail damage on your car, how can you know exactly how much it will cost to repair it?  In this article, we’ll show you how, and it starts with the changes in insurance inspection that often asks for photos to provide an estimate of the damage. What to Know About Car Insurance Photo Inspection A crucial requirement involved in fixing different types of hail damage—including collision, paint, and other serious forms of car damage—is having a clear picture of the situation. Even though you may only be dealing with minor hail damage, it still needs to be assessed properly to ensure an accurate estimate of repair costs and time. Since the pandemic, though, adjusters now rarely come out to do hail repair estimates at your home or office as they used to in years past. If you’ve recently filed a claim for one of the many hail storms in Colorado Springs, Greeley, etc. last  year, you’ve probably heard an adjuster ask you to “send photos.” We are getting tons of calls from frustrated customers wondering if their insurance adjuster will be able to see the hail damage in photos, especially if there are a ton of hard-to-see dents to assess. They’re also asking what to do when the estimate comes in REALLY low. When it comes to a car insurance photo inspection, it’s really difficult for adjusters to see the hail damage in most photos. But the good news is that if the estimate comes in crazy low, we simply send what’s called a “supplemental estimate” (aka supplement) up to the adjuster, which outlines all the damage he/she missed on the initial estimate. It was already an extremely common thing before this year, but the fact that adjusters simply aren’t going out to look at hail-damaged cars in person has made supplements even more prevalent today. However, there are things you can do to take better pictures that help adjusters spot hard to see hail damage on your car! Below are some of our tips and tricks on taking pictures for insurance claims to get an accurate estimate of hail damage, even on the hard-to-see dents: How to Take Pictures to Show Hard-to-See Hail Damage on Cars: Tip #1: Point to the Damage This is a straightforward way to show the adjuster exactly what you’re looking at in-person. Sometimes, people take a photo and think the adjuster will just “know” what it is they’re looking at—more often than not, that’s NOT the case. Tip #2 Photograph Broken or Dented Parts, Before You Replace Them This seems like a no-brainer, but definitely take photos of broken or dented parts before replacement or repair is done. Sometimes, people need to replace broken parts to make the car drivable, like the tail lights or windshield. If you have to replace these items BEFORE you get a photo-based estimate from your insurance, ensure you have pictures of the broken parts in the car showing damage! Also, be sure you save any receipts for items you purchase, as you can be reimbursed for those items. Your insurance might say something like, “well, your deductible is $500, and since the windshield is $450, we are just going to count that toward the expense of the deductible.” Here’s the thing about that. StormWise can waive a deductible*. So what does that mean to the purchased items that your insurance said would go towards your deductible? Save your receipts, and StormWise will reimburse you for the cost you’ve already put into repairing the broken parts. So, in this case, the insurance estimate will include the $450 it costs to replace that windshield, which means StormWise will receive payment for it. That’s how we can reimburse you directly from the insurance proceeds for your out-of-pocket cost to make the car drivable. Tip #3: Use the Proper Angles This is one that most people won’t know because it’s not super intuitive. Basically, you can’t look directly down at the panel – the dents will be washed out, and you won’t be able to see very many of them. When you look at the dent head-on and take a photo of it, you can’t get an idea of its true size. You have to be looking perpendicular to the panel: For example, kneel down when taking pictures of the hood. Look down the side of the door to see damage on the door panels. And don’t forget to point to the damage (without covering the dent with your finger) when taking photos. Tip #4: Use Indirect Lighting The sun isn’t always your best friend when it comes to revealing hard to see hail damage on car. In most cases, it really is better to use another light source. When your hail damage is fixed using paintless dent repair, you’ll see that the technicians use specialized lighting to see the true size and depth of the dent. You’ll also notice that they are usually working in a garage that doesn’t have a ton of other natural light shining through. Because bright sunlight will wash out the full

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