One significant benefit for drivers in the Sunshine State is Florida Statute §627.7288, which allows individuals with comprehensive insurance coverage to have their cracked or broken windshield replaced for free. In addition, motorists who have combined additional coverage also qualify for free windshield repair.
Unfortunately, many drivers are only aware of this Florida statute once their insurance provider or repair shop informs them of it. With the vast system of interstate highways and thousands of large commercial vehicles on the road that Florida drivers deal with daily, the chances of sustaining a cracked windshield are very high.
If your windshield is damaged in some way and you have comprehensive or combined additional insurance coverage, contact your insurer and make arrangements to have the windshield repaired for free. If you’ve been injured in an accident in Florida, contact RTRLAW today for a free, no-obligation case review.
What Is Comprehensive Insurance?
Comprehensive insurance pays to replace or repair your vehicle if it is damaged or stolen in an incident, not due to a collision. Comprehensive coverage will pay for windshield damage caused by the following actions:
- Falling objects
- Vandalism
- Damage caused by a rock or other debris
- Fire
- Damage from animals
- Damage from rioters
Even though insurance coverage generally requires policyholders to pay a deductible for repairs, Florida law dictates that car owners will pay nothing to repair or replace their windshields if the owner has comprehensive coverage.
Why Does Florida Law Mandate Free Windshield Repair?
Replacing a windshield can be costly, and many Florida drivers may be hesitant to pay the price associated with replacement. Nevertheless, it is unsafe for motorists to drive with a damaged windshield, as glass could easily shatter onto the driver and passengers.
Additionally, the glass could spill into the roadway creating a dangerous situation for other drivers, leading to a traffic accident. Furthermore, if pulled over by the police, you can be ticketed for driving with a cracked or broken windshield.
For these reasons, it’s always in your best interests to have a damaged windshield repaired or replaced immediately. Without fear of the cost of replacing the windshield, more Florida drivers are willing to have it fixed right away.
Why Is It Important to Speak With an Attorney After an Accident?
You should speak with a qualified auto accident attorney immediately if you’ve been injured in an auto accident. In many cases, car accident victims suffer severe injuries which prevent them from returning to work. Car accident victims are also left with expensive medical bills and emotional trauma.
Additionally, the insurance company may try to dispute or pay less than what your claim is worth. Insurance companies often have legal teams whose only job is to look for loopholes to avoid paying claims.
A skilled auto accident attorney can act as your legal advocate with the insurance provider to help you obtain a financial settlement that’s favorable to you. A personal injury lawyer can work with you to help you fill out the necessary paperwork and negotiate with the insurance company to recover maximum compensation for your injuries.
If you’d like more information about free windshield replacement, contact your insurance agent today. For more details about how RTRLAW can help if you’ve been involved in an accident, contact us or call us toll free at 1-833-HIRE-RTR today for a free, no-obligation case review.