A rock flies up from a vehicle in front of you and cracks your windshield. Almost everyone who has spent time driving knows that sound. Most of the time, you can just wince and carry on with your day. But, when damage is actually done, your first thought is likely “is there an insurance coverage that applies to windshields?” With Nationwide, your comprehensive or other than collision coverage may apply, depending upon the facts.

A damaged windshield doesn’t always need to be replaced. If your car’s windshield has minor damage, such as a chip or crack measuring less than 6 inches, it can probably be repaired.

Because even a small crack can grow over time, it’s important to report your glass damage claim as soon as possible.

What to do if your vehicle’s glass has been damaged

  • If you’re on the road and the damage obscures your vision, pull to a safe location and put on your emergency lights
  • Start your auto glass claim online now or call us at 1-800-421-3535 and state "glass only." Be prepared to provide your vehicle's year, make and model
  • Pick the date, time and place where you’d like the repair or replacement service performed
  • Make a note of your referral number

Glass repair done on your own schedule

When you use our Glass Service Program, the work can be done at a repair shop in our On Your Side Claims Service Network® or, where available, at your home, office or another location.

Safelite® Solutions is an optional third party that administers Nationwide's On Your Side Glass Service and will help arrange for windshield repair or replacement.

You’re free to have repairs done at a repair shop of your choosing, but please call us at 1-800-421-3535 before agreeing to any work. Keep in mind, the work is guaranteed if you use a shop in our Claims Service Network.1

Should you repair or replace a damaged windshield?

While minor auto glass damage may often be repairable, major damage can require replacement. Left unrepaired, even a chip or crack can spread and shatter. So, it’s important to have your windshield fixed by a qualified facility right away. Among the advantages:

Protecting you and your passengers

Hit a pothole or a bump in the road and the impact can cause even a small crack in the windshield to shatter and spray glass into the car.

Maintaining your car’s structural integrity

Your windshield is actually a structural part of the vehicle by helping keep the roof from wiggling around. Stresses from a cracked or improperly installed windshield can weaken the roof and cause it to collapse, especially in a rollover accident.

Saving money

If you have glass coverage, we’ll waive your deductible for windshield repairs.

[1] Guarantee covers replacement of any defective alternative parts identified on appraisal and used in repair for as long as you own or lease your repaired vehicle. Also, work performed at an On Your Side® Auto Repair Center includes a guarantee on the workmanship of the appraised and completed repairs for as long as you own or lease your vehicle.

Product, coverage, discounts, insurance terms, definitions and other descriptions are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in your individual insurance contracts, policies, and/or declaration pages from Nationwide-affiliated underwriting companies, which are controlling. Such products, coverages, terms and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply.

Each claim is handled on the basis of its individual facts and circumstances, in accordance with policy language, including applicable exclusions, conditions and limitations, as well as applicable controlling law.