What are the full glass coverage laws in Minnesota?

The weather in Minnesota can get snowy, and municipalities often treat snow-covered roads with salt and grit. So it’s not unusual for passing vehicles to throw up stones that damage windshields. If your car has sustained glass damage because of a similar situation or something entirely different, you’ll want to know your options. 

But will auto insurance cover a cracked windshield?

In Minnesota, recent laws require car insurance companies to offer no-deductible glass coverage options with comprehensive policies. And you’ll need this policy option, and sometimes more, to pay no out-of-pocket costs to fix your windshield. Read on to learn more about windshield replacement in MN.

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Understanding Windshield Replacement and Insurance in Minnesota

If you need your windshield repaired or replaced in Minnesota, you may wonder if your car insurance company covers it. This depends on what kind of coverage you have on your policy. 

You will need comprehensive coverage, and sometimes collision, to get help from your insurance company for a broken or cracked windshield. 

Comprehensive insurance covers damages to your vehicle when you’re involved in an accident that wasn’t caused by a collision. Some examples include:

• Hail
• Vandalism
• Falling Debris
• Natural disaster
• Hitting an animal
• Theft

However, if your windshield was damaged due to a crash with another vehicle, then collision coverage will apply. So it’s always recommended to have both.

No-deductible Option

If you have comprehensive insurance, you might not even need to worry about paying a deductible. 

According to a 2021 Minnesota statute, insurers must offer an option for no-deductible glass coverage with your comprehensive policy. If you choose that option, you’ll be able to get your windshield replaced with no out-of-pocket cost.

Freedom to Choose Your Repair Shop

Under Minnesota law, you can also use a glass vendor of your choice when it’s time for repair. The Unfair Claims Practices law prohibits an insurance company from pressuring an insured person to use a specific repair shop. 

Companies cannot incentivize you to use a particular company or location for the repair work. Your insurer can recommend a vendor, but that’s as far as it goes.

Choosing a Repair Shop for Your Windshield Replacement

Some car insurance providers may recommend a particular repair shop or opt to use aftermarket or used products rather than those made by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). 

However, you do not have to use the insurance company’s repair service choice and are free to shop around for yourself. 

Remember to consider the settlement details first to see whether there is a cap on how much the insurance company will pay. If you choose to go elsewhere for the work, and the bill from that shop is higher than the insurance company will pay, you may have to cover the difference. 

And remember, you do not have to settle for aftermarket parts if you prefer OEM equipment. 

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What are Minnesota’s regulations for damaged windshields?

In Minnesota, 2016 statutes state that a person shall not drive or operate any motor vehicle with a windshield cracked or discolored enough to limit or obstruct proper vision. 

While the law doesn’t offer much detail, it’s worth considering federal regulations as well. Federal rules say that your windshield must be free of damage immediately in front of the driver. Specifically, that means you can’t drive with view-obstructing damage above the steering wheel, extending to two inches below the top border and one inch from the side.

Does Minnesota full glass coverage extend to other windows?

Sometimes, a severe hailstorm may cause damage to other glass around the car as well as a windshield. Some policies may offer full glass coverage that includes the rear, driver, and passenger windows. 

The best way to find out what your policy covers is to ask your insurance company. And if your current policy does not cover windshield replacement, ask how you can add it to your existing policy. 

Understanding the Minnesota Windshield Replacement Law

In Minnesota, the law requires you to replace a damaged windshield if it obstructs your vision. And depending on your coverage, you might not have to pay anything out of pocket. 

Comprehensive and collision insurance covers you in just about any situation where your windshield can be damaged. 

Minnesota residents can choose their own repair shop and type of replacement materials, aftermarket parts, or OEM. The insurer cannot force you or entice you to select a particular vendor.

It’s important to look at all the information before choosing an insurance provider. Be sure to compare the details on coverage, replacement materials, and deductible amounts when shopping around.

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