Windscreen Coverage: What it is, what it covers, and what it doesn’t

Does your car insurance policy take care of your windscreen? It might be possible that you are not aware, and so it’s best to have a look at your insurance policy. And in case you don’t have one, we’d advise you to get windscreen coverage included in the agreement. Now, you must be thinking, what’s the whole fuss about the windscreen, and why are we focusing on keeping it protected at all times? Well, you see, a car’s windscreen is the biggest window in a car, which not only offers an excellent view of the surroundings but also enables you to see where you’re heading. Being the biggest window, it is more susceptible to breakage, as even a small pebble hitting your windscreen at a high speed can lead to severe damage and even breakage. Thus leading to costly repair or even replacement, which at times runs into thousands of pesos. God forbid, if you and your car ever end up in such a situation, it is important to make sure that your car insurance policy offers coverage against such financial strain. In case you are still not sure about windscreen insurance coverage, here is a detailed guide on the same. So, without any delay, let’s get started.

Understanding windscreen coverage

What is windscreen coverage? It is an optional or add-on coverage that covers the cost of windscreen repair and replacement, in case of damage (it gets chipped, cracked, or smashed). Key takeaways -

It is often included in a fully comprehensive car insurance policy, however, it is advisable to check your policy documents to be sure.
Third-party and third-party fire and theft coverage may not necessarily include windscreen coverage.
If windscreen coverage is not part of your standard car insurance policy, you can opt for it as an add-on at an additional cost.

Windscreen coverage - Scope

Several insurance providers in the Philippines include all the glasses in the car in windscreen coverage. So, it will include the following -

Front windscreen
Rear windscreen
Sunroof
Side windows
Lamination or tinting film

Along with all these add-ons, some insurance providers also take care of the installation and labour cost, thus freeing you from all the burden.

Photo from prestoneuk

Windscreen coverage - Coverage inclusions

As with the glass, every insurance provider offers different inclusions when it comes to windscreen coverage. However, the policy might include -

Damaged windscreen repair and replacement
All broken glass in the car repair and replacement
Damage caused to the car’s body or paint due to windscreen breakage
Restoration of the car’s advanced driver assistance system post-windscreen repair

Windscreen coverage - Coverage exclusions

Like the inclusions, the exclusions of a windscreen coverage vary with the insurance provider. Some of the common exclusions are -

Damage caused by the policyholder deliberately. Damage to the car resulting from wear and tear
Damage to the car’s reflectors and lights
Damage caused to the car while driving in a restricted area, like a race circuit
Damage caused to the car due to reckless driving

Windscreen coverage - Cost

In the Philippines, windscreen coverage typically costs 15% of the insured value of the windscreen. For example, if the windscreen is worth PHP 1000, the coverage would cost PHP 150.

Windscreen coverage - How to make a claim

Here’s how you can claim for your car - 1. Report the accident: Immediately after an accident, report it to your insurance company. Provide them with all necessary details, including the time, date, location, and description of the incident. 2. Gather evidence: Collect evidence at the scene of the accident. Take photos of the damage to the windscreen, gather witness statements, and obtain a copy of the police report if applicable. 3. File the claim: Contact your insurance company to file the claim. Provide all necessary documentation and be prepared to answer any questions. 4. Assessment & investigation: Once your claim is filed, the insurance company will assess the damage and may send an adjuster to inspect your vehicle. 5. Receive compensation: If your claim is approved, the insurance company will provide compensation based on the type of claim filed and the coverage limits of your policy. 6. Repair or replace the windscreen: Once you receive compensation, you can proceed with repairing or replacing your vehicle. Bottom line It is completely worth it to get windscreen coverage, as it can be really expensive to repair or replace one. By contributing around 15% of your windscreen cost, you get financial coverage for fixing or repairing this large glass component. FAQs What documents are required to file a car insurance claim? You’ll need a police report, repair cost estimates, photos of the vehicle damage, and copies of your driver’s license and vehicle registration. Is it advisable to drive with a cracked windscreen? No, not at all. Driving with a cracked windscreen is not at all safe, and it is advisable to get it fixed asap. What are the common causes of windscreen damage? A windscreen can get damaged due to the following elements: bad weather, road debris, temperature change, vandalism, and accidents. How can I prevent my windscreen from getting damaged? There are a few tips and tricks that’ll prevent your car’s windscreen from getting damaged. The list includes - keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, driving slowly on newly-laid roads with care, and keeping your car sheltered when parked. Is it necessary in the Philippines to get comprehensive car insurance? No. Having comprehensive car insurance is not mandatory, but it is recommended for all the additional coverage it offers. What are some of the leading car insurance providers in the country? Some of the top car insurance providers in the country are AXA Philippines, BPI MS, Surety Corporation, FPG Insurance Co. Inc., Prudential Guarantee and Assurance Inc., and Malayan Insurance Company Inc.