Connecticut Auto Insurance: Watch Out for Windshield Scams

Connecticut Auto Insurance: Watch Out for Windshield Scams

Let’s say you notice a tiny, imperceptible crack in your windshield. Maybe it’s not even a full crack, more of a dent really. Luckily, a man approaches, saying he noticed the chip and he could fix it for you, free of charge. Sounds great right?

Not quite. This is a known insurance scam, and one that seems to be rising in parking lots across the country. It is actually a premeditated con, designed to scam your insurance companies out of hundreds of dollars. Charging for insurance companies for unnecessary claims is undeniable fraud. What’s more, sometimes these repair men cause the damage themselves before pointing it out to you.

And it doesn’t just affect the insurance companies either. According to the Coalition Against Fraud, fraudulent insurance claims can add up to $80 billion annually in the United States. For each individual family, that adds up to approximately $950 a year in increased premiums.

However, scam or not, the issue of windshield repair remains. While it is advisable to avoid the free handyman who appears, it is essential that you get your windshield chip fixed sooner rather than later. If you wait, the results could be disastrous and costly. Fifty percent of chips crack within a year, 80 percent within two years, and 90 percent within three years.

Extreme temperature changes- such as turning on your heat full blast when Connecticut in the midst of winter, for example, or turning on your A/C when it starts to heat up again all places stress on your windshield. This added stress can aggravate cracks and cause them to spread across your entire windshield. Make sure to have it inspected by a professional to determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.

If you’re unsure what to do, it’s wise to contact your insurance company. They can help you confirm the damage needs to be fixed and help you find a reputable professional to do the repairs.

The Byrnes Agency provides individuals throughout Connecticut with Woodstock Auto insurance, Norwich auto insurance and Dayville Auto Insurance plans to protect against unforeseen damages and injuries. With access to dozens of insurers, we can obtain the most affordable rates for the coverages you need. Contact us today for more information about our Connecticut Auto Insurance programs.