Will My Insurance Pay for a New Windshield? What Michigan Drivers Need to Know

One of the most frequent questions we get at Clearview Auto Glass isn't about the glass itself - it’s about the bill. Navigating Michigan’s unique "no-fault" insurance landscape can feel like driving through a snowstorm without wipers. 

If you’re staring at a crack and wondering, "Is this covered?" here is the breakdown of how windshield insurance works in the Great Lakes State. 

1. The "Zero-Deductible" Chip Repair 

Here is some good news for a change: Most Michigan insurance providers want you to fix that chip before it becomes a crack. 

If you have Comprehensive Coverage, many insurers will waive your deductible for a chip repair. This means Clearview Auto Glass can often fix your windshield at zero out-of-pocket cost to you. They’d rather pay for a small repair today than the replacement cost next month! 

2. Comprehensive vs. Collision: Which One Applies? 

In Michigan, windshield damage typically falls under two categories: 

• Comprehensive: This covers "acts of nature" or random bad luck. If a rock flies off a gravel truck on I-96, a tree branch falls during a storm, or you hit a deer, this is the coverage that kicks in. 

• Collision: If your windshield is damaged during a car-on-car accident or because you hit a stationary object, it falls under your collision coverage. 

3. Will My Rates Go Up? 

This is the biggest fear Michigan drivers have. In most cases, a glass-only claim is considered a "no-fault" claim. Because a stray rock hitting your windshield is outside of your control, filing a claim for a repair or replacement typically will not increase your monthly premiums.  

4. The "Deductible" Dilemma 

Michigan does not have a "Free Windshield Law" like some other states (such as Florida or South Carolina). If your windshield is beyond repair and needs a full replacement: 

• You will usually have to pay your Comprehensive Deductible. 

• If your deductible is $500 but the replacement cost is $400, it’s actually cheaper to pay "cash" (out-of-pocket). 

• Pro Tip: At Clearview Auto Glass, we work with all major insurance carriers and can help you determine if filing a claim is actually the smartest financial move for you. 

How Clearview Auto Glass Makes It Easy 

We know you don't want to spend your afternoon on hold with an insurance adjuster. That’s why we handle the heavy lifting for you: 

1. Direct Billing: We work directly with your insurance company. 

2. Claim Assistance: We help you start the claim and handle the paperwork. 

3. Mobile Service: We can come to your home or office anywhere in our service area, so you don't have to miss work. 

Is It Covered? A Quick Checklist 

Type of Damage	Likely Covered?	Deductible Usually Applies?
Small Rock Chip	Yes	No (Waived by most MI insurers)
Long Crack (>6 inches)	Yes	Yes (Comprehensive Deductible)
Vandalism/Theft	Yes	Yes
"Wear and Tear" Scratches	No	N/A

Don't let insurance confusion keep you off the road. Call Clearview Auto Glass today, and we'll give you a clear answer on your coverage in minutes!