Guide to Windshield Replacement in Massachusetts (2024)

Windshield replacement can be expensive, particularly if you don’t have the right coverage.

Theresa Stevens
Theresa Stevens
  • AFCPE Accredited Financial Counselor

  • 6 years experience in the personal financial industry

Theresa is a writer and former financial advisor with experience helping clients solve money challenges. She uses her expertise to clarify complex personal finance concepts.


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Sara Getman
Edited bySara Getman
Sara Getman
Sara GetmanAssociate Editor

Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.

Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga and crocheting.

Updated November 27, 2024

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Your car’s windshield is your first line of defense against the rocks, bugs, and general debris that rises up on the road. And sometimes that defense can show some dents in its armor.

A simple rock striking your windshield can cause cracks and chips that obstruct your visibility and reduce the structural integrity in an accident. Both of these factors make repairing or replacing your windshield a necessary part of your car maintenance. But you have many factors to consider when pursuing windshield replacement, including legal requirements and costs. 

Here’s what you need to know about windshield replacement in Massachusetts so you can ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers.

Quick Facts

Car insurance that covers windshield replacement

If you have only the state-mandated amount of liability insurance, your insurer won’t cover windshield replacement. But if you have a full-coverage policy that includes collision and comprehensive coverage, you have more options.

If your windshield cracks, your insurance will likely cover it under comprehensive coverage. This insurance covers non-accident damage to your car, including if a rock hits and cracks your window or if someone breaks your window.

If you’re in a car accident or a deer hits your windshield and cracks it, your collision insurance will cover that damage.

Some insurers even offer windshield coverage as an add-on option if you want additional insurance. In Massachusetts, insurers must offer an optional full glass replacement coverage for a zero or $100 deductible.

Keep in mind that you’ll likely have to pay your deductible before insurance covers it.

Is it illegal to drive with a broken windshield in Massachusetts?

Under state law, you’re allowed to drive with a broken windshield in Massachusetts, depending on the condition of the glass. If the damage is small and doesn’t obstruct your windshield wipers or vision, you can still legally drive your vehicle. But your vehicle might have trouble passing any necessary inspections.

It’s important to address glass damage sooner rather than later, as even a small chip or crack can work its way across the windshield and impact the structural integrity of the glass. Proactively fixing damage can also save you money, as repairing a windshield is cheaper than replacing one.

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Does Massachusetts law require auto insurance coverage for windshield repair?

No specific law requires you to carry insurance for windshield repair in Massachusetts. Glass repairs typically fall under comprehensive insurance, which is optional.

Massachusetts does require auto insurance companies to cover glass damage under comprehensive coverage, but policyholders aren’t required to purchase this coverage. In an effort to make fixing glass damage more affordable, Massachusetts requires insurance companies to offer a $100 deductible option.

Yet, while Massachusetts doesn’t require windshield repair coverage for drivers, it does require other types of coverage. Here are the minimum requirements for all drivers in Massachusetts:[1]

  • Bodily injury to others: $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident

  • Damage to someone else’s property: $5,000 per accident

  • Bodily injury caused by an uninsured auto: $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident

  • Personal injury protection: $8,000 per person, per accident

Average cost of a windshield replacement in Massachusetts

The average price of a windshield replacement is between $100 and $1,500 without insurance.[2]

The cost of windshield replacement can vary based on many factors, including your vehicle make, age, and location. If your auto policy has a glass deductible, you’ll need to pay it before your insurance will cover the rest of the claim. Having a glass deductible typically decreases the cost of comprehensive coverage. But a higher deductible means higher out-of-pocket costs.

Good to Know

In many cases, an auto glass service technician can repair your windshield in a matter of hours. They can even make the repairs during your work day while you’re at the office or working from home.

Is auto glass coverage in Massachusetts worth it?

Here are some things to consider to help determine whether auto glass coverage is worth it:

  • Cost of repairs or replacement: It’s important to assess the costs of repairing or replacing your windshield. If the quote is relatively low and manageable for you, you might choose to cover repairs out of pocket instead of paying for additional coverage.

  • Deductibles and premiums: Depending on the deductible and the cost of repairs, it may or may not be beneficial to file a claim. For example, if your glass deductible is $1,000 but the replacement cost is $600, it doesn’t make sense to file a claim, as it’s cheaper to pay out of pocket during these times. Having a higher deductible means lower premiums, and a lower deductible means higher premiums. When you set a deductible, consider how much you could afford to pay if you need to replace your windshield. A deductible with up-front costs so high you can’t afford to pay them isn’t helping you.

  • Likelihood of glass damage: Think about your driving habits and the area around your home. If you frequently encounter road debris, hailstorms, or other situations that increase the risk of glass damage, having auto glass coverage might be worth it for you.

Car insurance companies that offer auto glass coverage in Massachusetts

You have plenty of options when it comes to auto glass coverage for your damaged windshield in Massachusetts. Shopping around to review glass replacement policies and comparing quotes from a few different companies can help you find the best coverage for your needs.

Allstate

Allstate logo
User Reviews
4.0
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
8.9 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$61/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$133/mo
4.0
Best choiceBased on 5662 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Allstate

Drivers appreciate the initial pricing and overall service but dislike the frequent rate increases and misleading pricing tactics.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Accident forgiveness
Wide availability
Cheap rates
How drivers feel about Allstate

Drivers appreciate the initial pricing and overall service but dislike the frequent rate increases and misleading pricing tactics.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Accident forgiveness
Wide availability
Cheap rates
Reviews (3,078)

Debora

November 25, 2024

Verified Review

Very Expensive for Automobiles

The representative was very nice, but the automotive insurance is too high.

John

November 25, 2024

Verified Review

Good

I've never had a problem.

Lisa D

November 25, 2024

Verified Review

Need Lower Insurance

It's very pricey. They indicate one quote while you're trying to shop around, and then the pricing goes up after signing on.
See all Allstate reviews
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
878
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.94
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A-
Why we picked this company

Allstate covers glass damage in its comprehensive policies. Allstate also offers Auto Glass Claim Express, a service that includes 24/7 access to a Glass Claim Express expert and a Lifetime Workmanship guarantee on full glass replacements.

Allstate partners with Safelite AutoGlass to handle glass-only claims, but you’re not required to use Safelite. Allstate does waive deductibles for glass repairs. You’ll need to pay your comprehensive deductible for glass replacement.

Pros
  • Ample opportunities for bundling discount

  • Offers a pay-per-mile option

  • A+ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best

Cons
  • Low customer satisfaction

  • Rates are merely average compared to other insurers

  • Below-average rank for customer satisfaction in many regions, according to J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study

GEICO

GEICO logo
User Reviews
4.0
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9.0 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$54/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$119/mo
4.0
Best choiceBased on 10302 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about GEICO

Drivers appreciate the excellent customer service and initial low prices but dislike the frequent price increases.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Teen drivers
Cheap rates
Accident forgiveness
How drivers feel about GEICO

Drivers appreciate the excellent customer service and initial low prices but dislike the frequent price increases.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Teen drivers
Cheap rates
Accident forgiveness
Reviews (5,664)

Elijah

November 27, 2024

Verified Review

Disappointed

Although you may have a 6-month policy, your rates are subject to change monthly.

Vickie

November 27, 2024

Verified Review

Experience with Geico

I have been with Geico for quite a while and I believe if insurance can be cheaper, they should adjust their prices accordingly. Otherwise, I might consider switching to another company.

Douglas

November 26, 2024

Verified Review

Watch Out

Be careful. They increase the rates every six months.
See all GEICO reviews
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
827
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.74
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++
Why we picked this company

Glass damage is included under GEICO’s comprehensive coverage in Massachusetts. If the damage to your windshield is repairable, GEICO will waive your deductible. If your glass needs replacement, the cost of the project is subject to your comprehensive deductible. A chip or crack in your windshield smaller than a dollar bill is potentially repairable, according to GEICO’s website.

GEICO also offers a fast glass-claim service to get you back on the road safely as fast as possible.

Pros
  • Good rates for good drivers, seniors, and young drivers

  • Accident forgiveness available

  • A+ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best

Cons
  • High rates for drivers with certain violations, like DUIs

  • No rideshare or new car replacement coverage available

  • Lower customer satisfaction scores from J.D. Power

Progressive

Progressive logo
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
818
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
8.4 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$98/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$152/mo
How drivers feel about Progressive

Drivers appreciate the professional service and accident forgiveness but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Easy buying process
Telematics program
How drivers feel about Progressive

Drivers appreciate the professional service and accident forgiveness but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Easy buying process
Telematics program
Reviews (5,818)

Debi

November 26, 2024

Verified Review

High Prices

The price keeps going up every year. It should be going down as the vehicle's value decreases each year. If you stay with them, you should get better deals.

James

November 26, 2024

Verified Review

Firstly, I would recommend sending a quote to the customer right away. Also, ensure that the quote is priced correctly. Make sure to plug into the customer's driving habits digitally. Send the quote by mail at least 2 days after the quote, not the 3 weeks it took for me to receive mine. Don't send me a copy of my quote and tell me it was to be returned signed the same day. Also, educate every person quoting uninsured motorist coverage that it has to be the same coverage as the person. I received a form letter asking what level I wanted, which was the same as the quote, then I was called and informed that I had to increase my coverage so it would match my personal coverage. This resulted in an increase in my premium. Thank you for reading.

Firstly, I would recommend sending a quote to the customer right away. Also, ensure that the quote is priced correctly. Make sure to plug into the customer's driving habits digitally. Send the quote by mail at least 2 days after the quote, not the 3 weeks it took for me to receive mine. Don't send me a copy of my quote and tell me it was to be returned signed the same day. Also, educate every person quoting uninsured motorist coverage that it has to be the same coverage as the person. I received a form letter asking what level I wanted, which was the same as the quote, then I was called and informed that I had to increase my coverage so it would match my personal coverage. This resulted in an increase in my premium. Thank you for reading.

Pedro

November 26, 2024

Verified Review

I Understand in Spanish, Not in English

Good, good.
See all Progressive reviews
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
818
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.82
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A+
Why we picked this company

Progressive offers glass protection when drivers purchase comprehensive coverage. The glass deductible is waived if your windshield is repairable. If your windshield needs replacement, you’ll need to pay up to your deductible. Progressive states on its website that cracks less than 6 inches long are potentially repairable.

Comprehensive insurance covers windshield damage due to falling debris or hitting an animal. If you’re in an accident with another vehicle, your Progressive collision coverage may cover the claim as well.

Pros
  • Rewards for good drivers

  • Numerous coverage options and discounts available

  • Optional coverage for pet injuries

Cons
  • Much lower-than-average overall customer satisfaction ranking in J.D. Power’s 2023 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study

  • Trustpilot rating of 1.1 stars (out of 5) from more than 1,000 reviews

  • Rates trend higher than rates from many competitors

USAA

USAA logo
User Reviews
4.9
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9.4 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$45/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$99/mo
4.9
Best choiceBased on 1614 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about USAA

Drivers appreciate the ease of working with the carrier, competitive rates, and responsive service but dislike the price increases and lack of rideshare add-ons in some areas.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
How drivers feel about USAA

Drivers appreciate the ease of working with the carrier, competitive rates, and responsive service but dislike the price increases and lack of rideshare add-ons in some areas.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
Reviews (920)

Susan

November 25, 2024

Verified Review

New to USAA

I have had limited contact with USAA since I started working with them. I wish my car insurance and homeowners policy were less expensive. I drive less than 50 miles a week and feel I am paying too much.

Andrew

November 25, 2024

Verified Review

Great Insurance but Expensive

The customer service and claims process are outstanding.

Arnie

November 25, 2024

Verified Review

Ratings

I have been with them for 50 years.
See all USAA reviews
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
884
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
1.35
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++
Why we picked this company

USAA’s comprehensive insurance covers windshield replacement and other types of glass coverage. You can get your windshield repaired at any auto repair shop, but USAA partners with Safelite AutoGlass.

Your windshield will need replacement if the damage is larger than a dollar bill and impairs your view or obstructs a camera or sensor, according to USAA. If you’ve already paid for auto glass repairs, you can request reimbursement through USAA’s website or mobile app.

Pros
  • High customer satisfaction

  • Low premiums

  • SafePilot program rewards good driving with up to 30% discount

Cons
  • Only available to active-duty military, veterans, military spouses, or children of service members or veterans

  • No 24/7 customer phone support

  • Customer reviews are mixed for service and claims processing

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Does filing a windshield replacement claim affect rates?

Typically, any claims will affect your insurance rates. But depending on the circumstances of the replacement, it may not have any effect at all.

If a rock cracks your windshield and you file a claim for it, your premiums may increase slightly or not at all. If you repeatedly make claims for a cracked windshield, your insurer will likely increase your rates.

If your windshield is broken due to an accident, you can expect your rates to increase. Talk to an agent if you want to know how a windshield claim could affect your rates.

Massachusetts windshield replacement FAQs

If you live in Massachusetts and need your windshield repaired or replaced, this additional information may help as you research your options.

  • Is it free to replace a windshield in Massachusetts?

    It depends on your auto insurance company policy and the deductible that you chose. Some companies offer a no-glass deductible, but glass deductibles are permitted under Massachusetts law. If you have a deductible, you’ll need to pay it before your insurance company will cover the windshield replacement.

  • Can you drive a car without a windshield in Massachusetts?

    In most cases, you’re required to have a windshield on your vehicle in Massachusetts, as it helps protect you and your passengers from hazards on the road.

  • Is it legal to drive with a cracked windshield?

    Yes. Driving with a crack in your windshield in Massachusetts is legal, as long as the crack is small and doesn’t obstruct your view of the road or hamper any cameras or sensors. In addition, no chips or cracks larger than a quarter are allowed.[3]

  • What does a $0 glass deductible mean?

    Some companies offer a $0 glass deductible, which means you can repair or replace your windshield with zero out-of-pocket costs. Review your insurance policy to see if it comes with a $0 glass deductible.

Sources

  1. Mass.gov. "Understanding Auto Insurance."
  2. Glass America. "What is the Cost for Replacing a Windshield Without Insurance?."
  3. Cracked Windshield Laws. "Massachusetts Cracked Windshield Laws."
Theresa Stevens
Theresa Stevens

Theresa Stevens is a personal finance writer based in Boston, Massachusetts. Her work has been featured in Forbes Advisor, Bankrate, and more. As a former financial advisor, she has first-hand experience helping people solve their money challenges. When she's not writing, you'll find her trying out new karaoke spots or planning her next trip abroad.

Sara Getman
Edited bySara GetmanAssociate Editor
Sara Getman
Sara GetmanAssociate Editor

Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.

Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga and crocheting.

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