When you have a broken windshield or other broken windows in your automobile, it is very important that you have them repaired as soon as possible. It could be very dangerous to drive a motor vehicle with broken windows. However, windshield repair is not as difficult as it may seem. Here is an interview with an auto glass specialist that explains windshield replacement.

Question: Why should I have glass repaired if I can still see well from my windows?

Auto Glass Specialist: It is very important to have all auto glass repaired because driving around with a broken window can be very dangerous. The side glasses are normally tempered, so when breakage occurs they will crystallize into small fragments to greatly reduce injury from lacerations. However, the small fragments pose a risk of injury to your eyes from wind blowing the glass around inside your vehicle.

Believe it or not, in some places, it is also illegal to drive around with broken windows. So, depending on where you live, you may get a ticket for driving with a broken window.

If your windshield has been damaged to the point that the drivers vision is severely hampered you could receive a citation.

Question: Will insurance cover the auto glass repairs?

Auto Glass Specialist: Yes. Most insurance companies will cover the windshield replacement repairs. However, it will depend on how the window was broken in the first place. If the window was broken by vandalism or road hazard damage, then it will be covered under comprehensive insurance coverage. If it was broken as the result of an automobile accident, then the collision coverage should cover it. Many insurance companies will also waive the deductible on rock chip repairs.

Question: How do I report a claim?

Auto Glass Specialist: You should contact your insurance company and they will be able to assist you complete and file your auto glass replacement claim. There are a few steps to complete in the process and most claims can be files 24/7. Each insurance company and policy is different, so to report an auto glass replacement claim, you should first contact a representative from your insurance company.

Question: When should I file a claim?

Auto Glass Specialist: As soon as possible. This is something that you definitely do not want to put off for very long. You really should report the claim within 24 hours of the accident or as soon as possible.

Question: What is the process of glass replacement?

Auto Glass Specialist: The process is really not that complicated. Report the claim to your insurance company and choose a reputable glass company. You can either bring your vehicle to there location or you may opt to have a mobile service truck come to you.

Most customers choose the mobile service out of convenience. The actual job takes about an hour once the technician has begun. Some critical factors to consider are: reputation of the glass company, certified technicians, and the type of urethane(adhesive) used. The adhesive drive away time needs to be met before the vehicle can be safely driven. A reputable company will usually have a safe drive away time in about an hour.

Question: How do I choose an auto glass company?

Auto Glass Specialist: You insurance company can help you do this. They will probably have a list of approved and recommended centers. You should visit each center individually and choose the one that seems to meet your needs. Do not be tricked into schemes and incentives. Remember that quality and safety are more important than receiving something free for choosing the company.

Another way to choose a service center would be to ask friends and family members if there is one that could recommend to you. Good service will be spread by word of mouth and if one your friends or one of your family members would recommend an auto glass company to you, you may want to consider their recommendation.

When choosing a service center you will want to make sure the company is accredited and is approved by your insurance company. Do your homework, compare prices but do not buy on price alone. Price along with quality equals value.

Windshield repair is very important. It is something that should be done as soon as possible. You and your family's safety could depend on it. So, if you have any questions, you should contact your insurance company and they will be able to guide you in the right direction.