If you’re a Tennessee driver with a cracked or damaged windshield, one of your first questions is likely, “Will my insurance cover this?” It’s a common concern we hear from drivers throughout Knoxville and surrounding areas. The good news is that in many cases, your auto insurance will cover windshield replacementโbut the details matter.
At Mobile Auto Glass Services, we’ve helped thousands of Tennessee drivers navigate their insurance coverage for windshield replacement. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about insurance coverage for auto glass in Tennessee, how to file a claim, and how our team at MAGS can make the process hassle-free.
Types of Insurance Coverage for Auto Glass in Tennessee
Understanding your insurance policy is the first step in determining if your windshield replacement is covered. In Tennessee, auto glass damage typically falls under these coverage types:
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage is the primary insurance type that covers windshield damage. This coverage protects your vehicle against non-collision incidents such as:
- Falling objects (tree branches, rocks, debris)
- Vandalism
- Theft
- Weather events (hail, storms)
- Road debris
If you have comprehensive coverage on your Tennessee auto policy, windshield damage is generally covered, but you’ll likely need to pay your deductible first.
Full Glass Coverage
Some Tennessee insurance companies offer specialized “full glass coverage” or “glass endorsements” as add-ons to your comprehensive policy. These endorsements typically cover windshield replacement with:
- No deductible
- No out-of-pocket costs
- No impact on premium rates
This coverage is not standard in most policies but can be added for a small additional premiumโwell worth it considering the frequency of windshield damage on Tennessee highways.
Liability Coverage Only
If you only carry liability insurance on your vehicle (the minimum required in Tennessee), your policy will not cover your windshield replacement. Liability only covers damage you cause to other vehicles or property, not your own.
Will My Insurance Cover My Windshield With No Deductible?
One of the most common questions Knoxville drivers ask us at Mobile Auto Glass Services is whether they’ll need to pay a deductible for windshield replacement. The answer depends on several factors:
Zero-Deductible States vs. Tennessee
Unlike Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, Tennessee is not a “zero-deductible state” for windshield replacement. This means:
- Tennessee does not have laws requiring insurance companies to waive deductibles for windshield claims
- You will typically need to pay your comprehensive deductible unless you have special glass coverage
- The average comprehensive deductible in Tennessee ranges from $250 to $1,000
Exceptions Where No Deductible May Apply
Even in Tennessee, there are situations where you might not have to pay a deductible:
- Full glass coverage endorsement – As mentioned above, this optional coverage specifically eliminates deductibles for glass claims
- Windshield repair vs. replacement – Some insurance companies will waive the deductible if the damage can be repaired rather than requiring full replacement
- Special policy provisions – Some premium insurance policies include deductible waivers for glass claims
Checking Your Specific Policy
The easiest way to determine if you’ll need to pay a deductible is to:
- Review your insurance declaration page for glass coverage details
- Call your insurance provider’s claims department
- Contact us at (865) 503-5850, and we can help verify your coverage
How to File an Auto Glass Insurance Claim in Tennessee
Filing an insurance claim for windshield replacement in Tennessee is straightforward, especially when you work with an experienced provider like Mobile Auto Glass Services. Here’s the process:
Step 1: Document the Damage
Before initiating a claim:
- Take clear photos of the damaged windshield
- Note when and how the damage occurred (if known)
- Record your vehicle information (year, make, model)
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Provider
You have two options for starting your claim:
Option A: Direct Contact
- Call your insurance company’s claims department
- Provide your policy number and damage details
- Ask about your coverage and deductible for windshield replacement
- Get a claim number for reference
Option B: Let MAGS Handle It For You
- Call us at (865) 503-5850
- Provide your insurance information
- We’ll contact your insurance company directly
- We’ll verify your coverage and manage the entire claims process
Step 3: Schedule Your Replacement
Once your claim is approved:
- Schedule your windshield replacement at your convenience
- Choose a location (we come to your home or workplace in Knoxville and surrounding areas)
- Prepare for a typically 1-hour replacement process
Step 4: Pay Any Applicable Deductible
If your policy requires a deductible payment:
- Pay directly to the auto glass company (MAGS)
- The insurance company pays the remainder
- You’ll receive a detailed receipt for your records
Step 5: Maintain Documentation
After replacement:
- Keep all paperwork related to the claim
- Save the warranty information (MAGS offers a lifetime workmanship warranty)
- Follow post-installation care instructions (no car washes for 3 days, no tinting for 5 days)
Does Filing a Windshield Claim Raise My Insurance Rates?
Many Tennessee drivers worry that filing a windshield claim will increase their insurance premiums. Here’s what you should know:
The General Rule
In most cases, a single windshield replacement claim:
- Will not significantly impact your insurance rates
- Is considered a “no-fault” comprehensive claim
- Is viewed differently than accident claims
Factors That May Affect Your Rates
However, your rates could potentially be affected if:
- Multiple glass claims – Several claims within a short period may trigger a rate review
- Claim history – If you have multiple recent claims of any type
- Insurance company policies – Each insurer has different guidelines for rate increases
- Timing – Claims near your policy renewal period may be more likely to affect rates
Tennessee-Specific Considerations
In Tennessee, insurance companies:
- Cannot raise rates for a single comprehensive claim due to an “act of nature” (like road debris)
- May consider claims history during regular policy reviews
- Must notify you in writing of any rate increases
For most Knoxville drivers, the benefit of having a safely replaced windshield far outweighs any potential minor premium increases, especially considering the safety risks of driving with a damaged windshield.
What if I Don’t Have Glass Coverage?
If you don’t have comprehensive coverage or your deductible is higher than the replacement cost, you still have options:
Out-of-Pocket Pricing
At Mobile Auto Glass Services, we offer competitive pricing for customers paying directly:
- Most windshield installations range from $150-300 for labor
- Total costs (including glass) typically fall under $500 for most vehicles
- We provide free, no-obligation quotes before any work begins
Affordable Payment Options
We understand that unexpected expenses can be challenging. That’s why we:
- Offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Provide mobile service at no extra charge (saving you time and money)
- Include free wiper blades with windshield replacement
- Deliver the same high-quality service regardless of payment method
Special Offers
We regularly offer specials for Knoxville-area drivers without insurance coverage. Contact us at (865) 503-5850 to learn about current promotions.
How MAGS Helps With Insurance Claims
At Mobile Auto Glass Services, we’ve simplified the insurance claim process for Tennessee drivers:
Direct Billing to Insurance
We work directly with all major insurance companies in Tennessee, including:
- State Farm
- Geico
- Progressive
- Allstate
- USAA
- Farmers
- Liberty Mutual
- And many more
Complete Claims Management
Our comprehensive insurance support includes:
- Verifying your coverage and benefits
- Filing the claim on your behalf
- Communicating directly with adjusters
- Managing all paperwork requirements
- Scheduling convenient mobile service
- Handling direct billing to your insurance
- Explaining any out-of-pocket costs upfront
Local Expertise Matters
As a local Knoxville business, we understand Tennessee insurance regulations and have established relationships with regional insurance representatives. This local expertise often results in:
- Faster claim approvals
- Smoother processing
- Better overall experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose any auto glass company in Tennessee for an insurance claim?
Yes. Tennessee law gives you the right to choose your preferred auto glass provider, regardless of which companies your insurance may recommend. Your insurance company cannot require you to use a specific provider.
How long does insurance approval take for windshield replacement in Tennessee?
Most insurance approvals happen within 24-48 hours. At MAGS, we often receive same-day authorization and can complete your replacement quickly, sometimes even on the same day you call.
Will my insurance cover OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass?
This depends on your specific policy. Many standard policies cover aftermarket glass by default, but OEM coverage may be available:
- As a policy upgrade
- For newer vehicles
- With certain premium insurance plans
We can help verify your OEM coverage options when you call.
What information do I need to provide for an insurance claim?
To process your claim efficiently, have ready:
- Your insurance policy number
- Vehicle information (year, make, model)
- Description of the damage
- Date the damage occurred (if known)
- Your contact information and preferred service location
Can you replace my windshield if it’s raining?
For quality and safety reasons, we cannot perform windshield replacement in the rain. However, we offer flexible scheduling and can:
- Work under covered areas when available
- Reschedule promptly if weather interferes
- Prioritize your appointment when conditions improve
Will my insurance cover chips and cracks or only full replacement?
Most Tennessee insurance policies cover both repair and replacement, depending on the damage:
- Small chips and cracks (under 6 inches) are typically repaired
- Larger cracks, multiple damage points, or damage in the driver’s line of sight usually require replacement
Your insurance coverage applies to either service, though deductibles may differ.
Trust Mobile Auto Glass Services for Your Insurance Claim
Navigating insurance claims shouldn’t add stress to an already frustrating situation. At Mobile Auto Glass Services, we pride ourselves on making the entire process simple and convenient for Knoxville drivers.
Our mobile service means we come to youโwhether you’re at home, work, or elsewhere in our service area. With our expertise in insurance claims and lifetime workmanship warranty, you can trust that your windshield replacement will be handled professionally from start to finish.
Need help with your windshield insurance claim? Contact us today at (865) 503-5850 for a free consultation. We serve Powell, Knoxville, Alcoa, Farragut, Clinton, Lenoir City, Oak Ridge, Loudon, Fountain City, and surrounding areas with prompt, professional mobile auto glass service.
Disclaimer: Insurance coverage information is based on general practices in Tennessee as of February 2025. Individual policies may vary. Mobile Auto Glass Services recommends contacting your specific insurance provider for details about your coverage. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice.
