Insurance FAQs

Know what’s covered.

To locate your nearest PROSTARS glass shop retailer, click here.

PPG Industries has been designing, improving, and manufacturing windshields for car manufacturers since windshields were invented. That's more that 100 years of experience you can count on.

Here are some frequently asked questions from auto glass customers.

What's the difference between my windshield and the other glass in my car? Isn't glass just glass?
I have a crack or a ding in my windshield - is it really important that I fix it right away?
Does my windshield really protect me?
What is OEM glass?
How can I know if a glass company will do a good job?
Can I have my glass replaced at my home or office?
Is a broken windshield covered under my auto policy deductible?
If someone borrows my car, are they covered under my auto insurance?
What is liability coverage?
What is bodily injury coverage?
What is property damage coverage?
What is medical payments coverage?
What is uninsured motorist coverage?
What is underinsured motorists coverage?
What is collision coverage?
What is comprehensive coverage?
What is a deductible?
What is emergency roadside assistance insurance?
What is SR-22 insurance?
What is an umbrella policy?
What is gap insurance?
What is no fault insurance?
How does a car insurance company set my premium?
When can my premium rates increase?
How do I get the most car insurance for my dollar?
Is my American auto insurance valid in other countries?
Am I covered for a car accident that happens in another state?
How high should I set my deductible?
My state has a Full Tort or Limited Tort Option. What does this mean?
I'm in a "no-fault" state. What does this mean if I have an accident?
What factors can an insurance company look at to determine if they will insure me?
Can my insurance company refuse to pay my claim?
Can I require my insurance to authorize the use of original equipment parts when repairing my vehicle? My policy says they will return my damaged vehicle to "pre-accident condition."

Question: What's the difference between my windshield and the other glass in my car? Isn't glass just glass?

Answer:

No - there's a very important difference between your windshield and the rest of the glass in your car.

Your windshield is made of Laminated Glass, which is designed to offer optimum safety in the event of a crash. Laminated Glass is made up of two pieces of glass, with a thin layer of vinyl sandwiched between them. The three pieces are laminated together by applying heat and pressure in a special oven called an autoclave. When a small object strikes a piece of safety glass, often only the outer layer struck breaks.

In severe impact situations, the glass "shatters" but usually does not fly apart - the broken pieces of glass generally adhere to the vinyl inner lining.

The side and rear windows are made of Tempered Glass. This type of glass has been put through a special process where it is heated, then rapidly cooled. This "tempering" process makes the glass many times stronger than un-tempered glass of the same thickness.

If broken, tempered glass is designed to disintegrate into small pieces of glass about the size of rock salt. There should be no large, jagged pieces of glass to injure the driver or passengers.

Question: I have a crack or a ding in my windshield - is it really important that I fix it right away?

Answer:

Yes! It's important for two reasons:

If the ding is small, it may be repairable. That means your PPG PROSTARS glass shop retailer can "mend" the break without replacing your entire windshield. Repairing your windshield typically takes 30 minutes. In some cases, your insurance company will waive the deductible on repair service, so it's free to you! But the longer you let the damage remain without having it fixed, the more dirt and debris will collect in the break - and the more the break will spread. If it gets too big, it's very likely that a replacement will be necessary.
The second reason to have a damaged windshield fixed is for your own safety. The windshield is more than just a "shield" from wind and road dirt, it's an important structural element of your car. It helps keep you and your passengers in the car in a front impact accident, and keeps your car's airbag in the optimum position so it can function as designed. If your windshield is weakened due to damage, it could be dangerous to you and your passengers in the event of an accident. Also, damaged glass may cause optical impediments when driving, particularly at night, which is a significant safety hazard.

Question: Does my windshield really protect me?

Answer:

Yes. Your windshield plays an integral part in roof crush protection in a roll-over accident. It also provides the brace for your passenger-side airbag. If your windshield loses adhesion on a collision or rollover, your safety is in jeopardy. This is why it is important that your auto glass work be done by a trained professional.

Question: What is OEM glass?

Answer:

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacture. This means that the glass meets the original specifications for safety and quality as the glass that it came with from the factory.

Windshields may look simple, but they are actually made from two pieces of glass that are bent in a very precise way. If a windshield does not meet the exact specifications of the manufacturer, it will not fit precisely in your car.

The best way to assure exact fit is to use a windshield produced from a fixture engineered to manufacturer’s specifications. OEM glass is your assurance that this has occurred. Learn more about PPG's OEM replacement glass.

Question: How can I know if a glass company will do a good job?

Answer:

The first thing you should ask is whether the shop is a PROSTARS glass shop retailer. Each one of our participants is an independent glass shop retailer from your local community and committed to providing the highest quality of workmanship, parts, and customer service.

All PROSTARS glass shop retailers are participants with LYNX Services, a national glass claims administrator. LYNX Services takes care of the pre-screening of glass shops for you. In order to participate in the LYNX Services program, each PROSTARS glass shop retailer must meet a set of criteria developed to ensure both safety and quality. Another part of becoming a LYNX Services Participant involves completion of a certification process in the proper use of adhesives. These adhesives are what holds windshields in place and is the single most critical element in a safe, secure installation.

Furthermore, LYNX Services is part of PPG Industries, the largest manufacturer and distributor of automotive glass in North America. PPG has a storied history in glass and is the leader of the auto glass industry.

The expertise of PPG and the monitoring of LYNX Services gives you the peace of mind that work done by any PROSTARS glass shop retailer is guaranteed.

Question: Can I have my glass replaced at my home or office?

Answer:

Yes, but you should take precautions. You should avoid having your windshield replaced outside when the weather is bad. Any time the temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, one-part adhesives may not adhere properly, and your windshield could leak or lose its adhesion. In low temperature and high humidity situations, a reputable company will use a two-part sealant containing a chemical drying agent that will harden quickly under all temperature and humidity conditions. No reputable company would replace a windshield during poor weather conditions without setting up a temporary shelter over your car to protect it during the installation.

Question: Is a broken windshield covered under my auto policy deductible?

Answer:

Broken windshields and other glass are typically covered under the comprehensive coverage portion of an auto insurance policy. Comprehensive generally provides coverage for physical damage to your vehicle caused not by a collision with an object or another vehicle, but by a variety of other specific perils. This type of coverage is optional in most states and, if purchased, will usually raise your premium and carry deductibles. It may or may not be cost effective, depending on the value of your vehicle.

If you do have comprehensive, the cost probably will be covered, but to what extent depends on the details of your particular policy. Comprehensive coverage is broken down into the different items or perils covered under specific sections of the policy (e.g., glass, fire, water, theft, etc.). Each is listed separately in the contract and is usually subject to its own deductible, which can often be adjusted up or down.

Question: If someone borrows my car, are they covered under my auto insurance?

Answer:

As a general rule, auto insurance coverage actually follows the vehicle, not the driver. So if your car is involved in an accident, the car typically receives the full coverage provided by the auto insurance policy, regardless of who is driving.

Auto insurance policies normally provide coverage for your car if it is driven by any of the following people:

You, the "named insured"
Your spouse, as long as he or she lives in your household
Other family members who are related to you by blood, marriage, or adoption
A foster child who lives in your household
A child who is away at college but still considers the address listed on your policy as a permanent address
Anyone to whom you lend your car

Your insurance company may require that certain conditions be met in order for other drivers to be covered under your policy. For example, anyone who drives your car must typically be a licensed driver. Additionally, most insurance companies require that anyone driving your car be doing so with your permission.

Because these conditions can vary, it is important to check your policy carefully and make sure you understand any limitations that might apply before you allow others to drive your car.

Question: What is liability coverage?

Answer:

Liability coverage insures you against the cost of injury and damage you cause to another in an automobile accident. It's made up of two policies, bodily injury liability, and property damage liability. Auto liability insurance is required in every state.

Question: What is bodily injury coverage?

Answer:

It's the part of liability coverage that insures you against the injury you cause to others in an auto accident. It consists of two figures. One limits the cost of injury coverage per person injured, and the second limits the total dollar amount of injury coverage (for everyone injured.)

Question: What is property damage coverage?

Answer:

It's the part of liability coverage that insures you against the cost of damage to another's property caused by you in an automobile accident. "Property" includes other cars, houses, fences, telephone poles, etc.

Question: What is medical payments coverage?

Answer:

This policy pays the medical bills of the covered driver, family members, and passengers when injured in an accident, regardless of who was at fault. This coverage is required in some states, but not in others.

Question: What is uninsured motorist coverage?

Answer:

This policy covers the cost of injury or damage caused by another driver who is not insured. It covers the policy holder, authorized drivers, and any passengers. It usually consists of separate limits for bodily injury and property damage. This policy is required in some states.

Question: What is underinsured motorists coverage?

Answer:

This policy pays for injuries and damage caused to the policy holder by a driver with inadequate insurance. It typically pays the difference between the at-fault driver's liability limit and the holder's policy limit. There are separate limits for property damage and bodily injury liability. This coverage is sometimes combined with uninsured motorist coverage under one policy, and may be required in some states.

Question: What is collision coverage?

Answer:

This policy helps pay for repairs or fair market replacement cost if your car is damaged in an accident caused by you or an authorized driver. This policy is always optional.

Question: What is comprehensive coverage?

Answer:

This policy covers the cost of repairs to or replacement of your vehicle should it be stolen, vandalized, struck in a hit-and-run, or damaged by an "act of God." Covered events vary from policy to policy but usually include fire, flood, and falling objects. This policy is always optional.

Question: What is a deductible?

Answer:

It's the amount of money that you agree to pay before a certain auto insurance policy kicks in. Deductibles are designed to cut down on insurance costs by eliminating small or frivolous claims. The higher the deductible you're willing to pay, the lower the premium you earn.

Question: What is emergency roadside assistance insurance?

Answer:

It's an optional policy that covers the cost of towing or immediate roadside repair (like fixing a flat or jump-starting the battery). It does not cover the costs of any repairs done at a garage or service station, however.

Question: What is SR-22 insurance?

Answer:

The SR-22 is actually a form that high-risk drivers may be required to file with the state before car insurance is purchased. It requires the provider to notify the state should the policy be terminated or canceled. DUIs, multiple speeding tickets, and driving without insurance or valid license are all reasons a SR-22 may need to be filed. The requirement usually lasts for three years after the initial event.

Question: What is an umbrella policy?

Answer:

It is additional liability coverage that goes "over" your auto liability limits. An umbrella policy may also increase other coverages, like homeowners's liability or boat liability. Carrying an umbrella policy is a good idea for drivers with considerable assets to protect.

Question: What is gap insurance?

Answer:

This optional policy insures the driver of a new car for the difference between the car's financed value and its fair market value. Should the car be "totalled" during the first few years after purchase, the owner will be covered for the amount still owed on the car, rather than it's market value (which is often much lower). Because it covers only the difference in value, this is a relatively inexpensive policy.

Question: What is no fault insurance?

Answer:

No fault insurance covers the injury-related expenses of the policy holder in the event of an accident, regardless of who was at fault.

Question: How does a car insurance company set my premium?

Answer:

Insurance companies consider several factors. These factors include where you live, the kind of car you drive, your age and gender, the level of coverage you want, and your driving record, among other things.

Question: When can my premium rates increase?

Answer:

Whenever you renew your policy, apply for a new one, change drivers or vehicles, or are involved in an accident or traffic violation. When your state allows a rate increase, all the insurance carriers will likely raise their premiums.

Question: How do I get the most car insurance for my dollar?

Answer:

Keep your deductibles high and your liability limits high. You'll get a lot more coverage for your cash that way.

Question: Is my American auto insurance valid in other countries?

Answer:

In Canada, it is. In Mexico it probably is. In the rest of the world, it isn't. However, Mexico's liability laws are a little different from ours, so it's not a bad idea to get a temporary Mexican policy if you'll be traveling there by car.

Question: Am I covered for a car accident that happens in another state?

Answer:

An American car insurance policy is good throughout the country. However, some policies change their coverage a little depending where you have an accident. Be sure to check your policy or contact your insurance agent for any specific restrictions on your policy or in your state of residence.

Question: How high should I set my deductible?

Answer:

As high as you comfortably can. A small increase in your deductible can allow you to make a big increase in more important coverage, like liability.

Question: My state has a Full Tort or Limited Tort Option. What does this mean?

Answer:

Under "full tort," if you're in an accident, you may sue for all injuries you sustain. If you choose the "limited tort" option, you generally limit your right to sue except for serious injuries, as defined by your state. In return for selecting the limited tort option, you often save a percentage off your total premium.

Question: I'm in a "no-fault" state. What does this mean if I have an accident?

Answer:

Your insurer will automatically pay for your damages, up to your policy limits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. In exchange for this guaranteed payment, you give up some of your rights to sue the other driver(s) involved in the accident. By the same token, you are also protected from being sued in the event you are at fault in an accident.

No-fault insurance can restrict recovery for pain and suffering as well as limit loss payments. Depending on your state, you may be allowed to sue for non-economic damages if the amount of these damages exceeds a specific amount. Be sure to check with you insurance agent for further details.

Question: What factors can an insurance company look at to determine if they will insure me?

Answer:

Typically, insurance companies weigh the following factors to determine if they will write, or continue, coverage for an individual:

Your age
The type of vehicle you drive
Your claims history
Your driving record

Your state may also have additional restrictions such as profession or marital status. Insurance companies cannot discriminate against providing coverage based on a protected class such as race, sex, religion, national origin or ancestry.

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Question: Can my insurance company refuse to pay my claim?

Answer:

Most insurance policies include a section in your policy that defines what you, the policyholder, are required to do when an accident occurs. This information in your policy sets out the general as well as any specific procedures that you must follow in order to have your claim covered by the insurer. It's essential to follow these procedures carefully, since payment of your claim may depend on your doing so.

Question: Can I require my insurance to authorize the use of original equipment parts when repairing my vehicle? My policy says they will return my damaged vehicle to "pre-accident condition."

Answer:

Possibly. This can depend on both the state you are in as well as the terms of your auto insurance policy. Some automobile insurance companies automatically use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Others use non-OEM parts. If the repair of the damaged part directly affects the operational safety of the auto, the insurance company may be required by your state law to replace it with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part.

For non-safety-related parts, there may be more restrictions on the use of OEM both under state law as well as your policy. You may be able to insist on OEM parts, but where they aren’t required you will generally have to pay the difference in cost.

To locate your nearest PROSTARS glass shop retailer, click here.