Navigating Florida’s roads poses distinctive obstacles, such as erratic weather and heavy traffic flows. One of the biggest problems that Florida drivers encounter is damage to their windshields, which is frequently the result of road debris, objects falling, or acts of vandalism. Fortunately, Florida law has provisions that help mitigate the costs associated with windshield repair and replacement. In this blog post, we will explore Florida’s windshield replacement law, its significance, and ways to make use of it.
What is Florida’s Windshield Replacement Law?
Florida Statute §627.7288 offers a significant advantage to drivers in Florida, especially those covered by comprehensive insurance. Under this law, if your windshield is cracked or broken, your insurance company must replace it without any cost. This includes no deductible or out-of-pocket expenses for the replacement.
Additionally, drivers with combined additional coverage also qualify for complimentary windshield repairs. Despite these benefits, many drivers only learn about this statute when informed by their insurance provider or a repair shop. Given Florida’s extensive interstate highways and the frequent presence of large commercial vehicles, the likelihood of sustaining windshield damage is notably high.
If your windshield sustains damage and you have comprehensive or combined additional insurance coverage, it is crucial to contact your insurer promptly. This ensures you can arrange a no-cost repair or replacement, maintaining safety and compliance with Florida’s windshield replacement regulations.
Why Florida Requires Windshield Replacement
Substituting a windshield can be costly, causing some drivers to avoid getting essential repairs. Yet, operating a vehicle with a cracked windshield poses significant safety hazards. A damaged windshield can break into pieces, creating a risk of harm to the driver and passengers. Furthermore, fragments of shattered glass spread across the street can pose dangerous situations for fellow motorists and could result in collisions.
In addition, if you are pulled over by law enforcement in Florida, you may receive a citation for driving with a cracked or broken windshield. Officials are treating this issue with great concern because of its potential dangers on the streets.
The windshield replacement law in Florida guarantees that drivers can get their windshields replaced for free. This law promotes timely fixes, improving road safety and stopping minor damages from becoming more significant problems.
More: Florida Car Accident Injury Claim: 5 Things You Might Not Know
What Makes You Eligible for a Free Windshield Replacement?
According to Florida law, you must hold comprehensive insurance coverage to qualify for a free windshield replacement. This type of insurance protects your vehicle from various types of damage that do not involve collisions. Specifically, comprehensive coverage includes repairs for windshield damage caused by:
- Objects falling onto your vehicle
- Acts of vandalism
- Impact from rocks or other debris on the road
- Fire incidents
- Damage caused by animals
- Situations involving rioting
Typically, comprehensive insurance policies require policyholders to cover a deductible for repairs. However, Florida law waives this requirement for windshield repairs and replacements under comprehensive coverage. This legal provision alleviates the financial burden on vehicle owners, ensuring they can promptly address any windshield damage to maintain vehicle safety and compliance with the law.
Ready to Take the First Step Towards Justice?
If you need a windshield replacement and believe you qualify under Florida’s Windshield Replacement Law, acting quickly is essential. Contact your insurance provider to report the damage and arrange for the repair. Most insurance companies have preferred repair shops that they work with, making the process smooth and hassle-free.
For residents in the Greater Miami Area and communities across Florida, RRBH Law can offer guidance and support if you encounter any issues with your insurance claim. Serving areas including Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, Hialeah, South Miami, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Kendall, Glenvar Heights, Westchester, West Miami, Brickell, Sweetwater, Doral, Miami Springs, and Miami Beach, RRBH Law is ready to help you navigate the process. Contact RRBH Law at 305-800-4663 to schedule a consultation and ensure you get the windshield replacement you deserve.