Is windshield coverage mandatory in Arizona?

Drivers in Arizona are all too familiar with the dreaded sound of a rock damaging their windshield while on the road. Living in the desert, with monsoons and dust storms, there is no shortage of small rocks and pebbles along the roads and highways, which can cause immense damage when launched at a high rate of speed (say falling off the bed of a dump truck). Add in the fact that Arizona is one of the fastest growing states anywhere, with new construction (and construction vehicles) seemingly at every turn, it’s no surprise that roughly ten percent of all the auto glass claims filed in the United States are filed in Arizona.

In the state of Arizona, all drivers are required to have insurance that covers damage to their vehicle's windshield

It shouldn’t come as a shock that all drivers in Arizona must have coverage for the windshield, more specifically called “windshield coverage”. If you’re found without this type of insurance, you may face a fine from the state of Arizona.

This kind of coverage helps protect against the potential cost of windshield replacement or repair due to damage caused by rocks and other debris that kicks up on highways and backroads.

Having this protection as part of your automobile insurance is easy and will provide peace of mind while you’re on the road. If you drive every day in Arizona, particularly in the Phoenix or Tucson metro areas that have frequent dust storms and desert pebbles along the road, getting your windshield damaged isn’t a matter of if – but when.

Arizona windshield replacement law states that if a crack impedes driver line of vision, the windshield must be replaced. This is generally understood to be a crack longer than a dollar bill on the driver’s side. Arizona’s ARS 20-263 law states that filing a “no fault” cracked windshield replacement claim will not raise your rates.

Arizona is one of a six states that offers zero-deductible windshield glass replacement coverage

Arizona has an insurance regulation that requires state insurers to offer an option for a $0 glass deductible if a customer purchases comprehensive coverage in their car insurance policy. What this means is that under comprehensive coverage, insurers would pay for all windshield replacement costs. However, it’s important to understand that in order for that to apply, a customer must purchase the $0 deductible option with their insurer.

If you have no insurance and are planning to pay cash for a windshield replacement in Phoenix, the cost can be anywhere from $200 to up to $1000 without the installation fee. The exact price will depend on the vehicle make and model. Most models are around the $200 – $300 mark.

There are a few different ways to get this coverage, including through your car insurance company or by purchasing a standalone policy

In order to ensure your windshield and other windows are adequately covered in the event of an accident or other occurrence, there are a few options you may want to consider. Obtaining a standalone policy is one possible route, though generally the most cost-effective way of obtaining coverage is through your car insurance provider.

While it’s not legally required to do so, most major auto insurance companies offer discounts if you purchase a bundle of multiple types of coverage from one provider. In addition to giving you the protection and peace of mind that comes with knowing your car is covered in case of serious damage, this can be a great way to save money on your premium, depending on the types of policies included. However, you want to be sure that you aren’t adding insurance you don’t need, in the hopes of getting lower auto (and windshield) coverage.

Insurance Professionals of Arizona can help take a look at all your insurance needs, and help you compare auto policies in Arizona so you can make an informed choice as to which one is right for you. In addition, not all windshield coverage policies are the same, and you may wind up paying more out of pocket than you intended if you sign up for a policy without reading the fine print.

At IPA, we will make sure you fully understand the details of any policy before you enroll. For example, if you drive every day through construction, freeways that cut through desert landscapes, or other hazardous areas, you may need to be sure you have more comprehensive windshield coverage than most. Conversely, if you barely drive your vehicle, there may be policies with less coverage and lower rates that are a better fit for you.

Give IPA a call today and we’ll help you get the perfect auto coverage for your needs.