When do you owe a deductible?
When you make a claim on auto insurance, you owe a deductible, but not always. Nor do you owe this amount with all insurers. What are the rules?
The coverage offered by insurers in car insurance is similar for almost all insurers. However, there is a big difference in the excess payable in case of damage. Some insurers do not do this, while others do. But beware, there are discounts available. Insurers make agreements with damage repairers. If you have your car repaired at an affiliated bodyshop, you can often get a discount. Take advantage of this, as the savings are often large.
How much deductible do insurers charge?
Car insurance often has a standard deductible of €100 or €150. In the event of a claim, this is the portion of the damage you are responsible for. For windshield breakage, a different amount may apply. With an insured damage, the insurer pays the damage amount to the body shop, except for the part that remains for your own account. You pay that yourself. In case of a recovery claim, you get your own contribution compensated. This is paid by the party responsible for the damage.
There is no deductible for damage to others
For so-called liability coverage, insurers do not charge a deductible. This refers to claims on third-party car insurance. Is your car more broadly insured, and do you also claim damage to your own car from the insurer? Then you will be charged an excess again. At least if it is included in the car insurance policy.
How much do you pay yourself for windshield damage?
How much cost insurers charge you for windshield damage varies greatly from one insurer to another. However, there are commonalities that apply to most insurers. When replacing a car window, there is often a cost to the policyholder of €135 or €150. If you choose a repairer with whom the insurer has agreements, this amount is halved. There are also insurers who require a higher deductible of, say, €500. If you go to an affiliated repairer, you get another discount. If the window is not replaced, but repaired, there is often no excess. The only condition is that the repair is done by an affiliated repairer.
Comparing car insurance is more than just comparing premiums. You should also consider the amount you will have to pay in the event of a claim when choosing a car insurance policy. By paying attention to this, you can avoid unpleasant surprises when you do have damage. Contact your insurer in case of damage. It often makes a difference where you go for repairs. Going to the (according to your insurer) right body shop can reduce your costs.
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