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No one wants to discover that they have a crack in their windshield, but repairing it quickly is vital to preventing further cosmetic damage to your car as well as unnecessary injuries in the event of an accident.

Before you call the nearest repair shop to get the glass fixed or replaced, you should be aware of the provisions in your auto insurance policy and the applicable laws in your state to make sure that you do not pay more than necessary.

Compare car insurance quotes today to find the best rate for the cracked windshield insurance coverage you need. Use our free rate tool above to get started.

Zero Deductible Full Glass Coverage Law in Alaska

States referred to as zero deductible states do not require drivers to pay any deductible amount to their auto insurer to get their windshield repair.

However, there is no specific law in Alaska regarding the auto insurance company’s responsibility for covering windshield glass replacement or repair.

You will need to have comprehensive auto insurance coverage in order to have your windshield repair covered by your auto insurance policy. This coverage pertains to physical damage to your vehicle that is not the result of a collision.

In addition to windshield repairs necessitated by a crack from a rock or other object, comprehensive coverage would handle damage caused by the following:

• a violent storm
• vandalism
• theft

Comprehensive auto insurance coverage is an add-on coverage because it is not required by state law in Alaska. Given that you will be paying extra for this coverage, it is wise to shop around before you choose an auto insurer.

Comparing rates allows you to make the most informed decision about whether the premium you pay is appropriate. You should also decide on the amount of coverage and deductible that best fits your financial position.

Read your auto insurance policy carefully to make sure that windshield replacement or repair is covered. You can also ask your auto insurance agent if this is included in your policy.

You should be clear on the amount of deductible you will be required to pay upfront before sending your car in for repairs. A high deductible means a lower premium, but you need to be sure that you select a deductible amount that you can actually afford to pay out of pocket.

Law Governing Replacement Parts in Alaska

Laws in Alaska governing cracked windshields simply state that a driver must have the crack repaired or the glass replaced if his or her view is obstructed. There are no state regulations as to the type of glass or parts that must be used to repair the cracked windshield in Alaska.

Your auto insurance provider may have a pre-approved list of repair shops that you can choose from before you agree to have your windshield repaired or replaced.

When you file a claim, the auto insurance company will provide you with the list and allow you to choose the shop. It is important that you not sign off on any repair estimates or agreements with the auto body shop before formally speaking with your auto insurer to file a claim.

Law Governing Choice of Repair Vendor in Alaska

You have the right to have your car repaired at the auto body shop of your choice. Alaska does not have any specific laws on this topic. The auto insurance company may require you, however, to provide proof of multiple estimates for the repair work.

The insurance company will not want to may more than what is considered a reasonable rate in your market area for the repair.

One of the advantages of going to a repair shop that has been pre-approved by your auto insurance company is that the process may be much more streamlined.

These auto body shops typically have arrangements negotiated in advance with the auto insurance company, which means that the insurer will not request multiple estimates and is less likely to push back on the cost of the repair or replacement.

You are less likely to end up having to pay any amount out of your own pocket to cover the difference in repair cost between what the shop charges and what your insurance company is willing to pay.

Wrap up on the Full Glass Coverage Laws in Alaska

Alaska does not impose any unique requirements on a driver seeking to have a windshield repaired or replaced after it is cracked.

The terms of your policy will dictate whether you have to pay a deductible and how much it will be. 

In advance of signing off on any repairs for your cracked windshield, you should file a claim through your comprehensive auto insurance policy and ask your insurance company about the process for having a repair or estimate approved.

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Auto Insurance FAQ

15.12.2017 / Alaska / comprehensive coverage / glass coverage