Avoiding Windshield Repair Fraud

Driving with a chipped or cracked windshield can be dangerous. If you are thinking about repairing your own windshield and you are approached by a salesperson offering free repairs or other perks, you may be tempted to offer up your insurance information on the spot.

Unfortunately, many sales representatives offering these seemingly good deals are involved in windshield repair fraud schemes that could cost you a fortune in the future. Here are three things you can do to avoid becoming a victim of windshield repair fraud in the future.

1. Vet your repair company in advance.

If you want to ensure that you will not become a victim of windshield repair fraud, it can be helpful to vet your glass replacement company in advance. Rather than making an impulse decision, do some research on the background of the company that will be repairing your windshield.

Consult with the Better Business Bureau to determine how reputable the company is, and make a decision based on the information you gather. Working with a reliable company reduces your chances of being victimized through fraudulent activities.

2. Inspect your windshield thoroughly before taking it in for repairs.

Sometimes repair fraud happens when a glass replacement company overcharges you for the labor completed. To ensure that you know exactly how much work will be required to repair your windshield, it's essential that you take the time to thoroughly inspect your auto glass before taking it in for repairs.

Knowing how many chips or cracks are present, and the exact location of the damage, can help you determine if you are being charged for repairs that were not necessary.

3. Work with your insurance company to file a claim.

Before providing your insurance information to a glass replacement company, it can be helpful to contact your insurance company and let them know about the claim that will be filed on your behalf.

Giving your insurance agent a heads-up when it comes to the amount the claim will be filed for prevents a dishonest glass replacement company from increasing the cost of repairs before billing your insurance company.

Discovering that you have been the victim of windshield repair fraud can be frustrating. To avoid dealing with the financial fallout of a fraudulent activity, be sure that you vet your glass replacement company, inspect the windshield for damage yourself prior to repair, and keep in contact with your insurance company if a claim will be filed on your behalf. Contact a business, such as Insure With U.S., for more information.