Beware Windshield Repair Scams
How many times have you been driving and something hits your windshield? It may be a tiny rock or piece of gravel but it creates a pinpoint crack. You think you can ignore it but then it starts to grow, until you realize the crack must be repaired. Or worse, your windshield is hit by a falling branch during a heavy rain or snowstorm and it has to be replaced.
Before you call your insurance provider, you are approached in a gas station or at your house by someone claiming to be a glass specialist. They offer to fix the repair easily and at low cost to you if you would only sign a simple agreement. It seems so easy, and 
you agree. Then sadly it all backfires. The work is shoddy, or the charges are highly inflated and denied by your insurance provider. You then learn that the insurance provider has been sued in your name and what you signed was not a simple contract for the repair but rather an assignment of benefits that obligates the insurance provider to pay the charges. Then it hits you, it’s scam.
Windshield repair scams are on the rise and costing drivers both time and money. Data shows the frequency of these scams have exploded over the past 13 years by over 8,000 percent and often end up in court after the insurance provider refuses to pay. The result is higher premiums for everyone to offset the cost.
Windshield Scam Red Flags
Below are the red flags or tactics often used in these scams.
· You are asked to sign a sketchy or incomplete contract on the spot.
· Payment is required upfront and there is no guarantee or warranty on the work.
· They suggest replacing a windshield with only minor damage that could be repaired.
· You are offered an incentive like free car washes, gift cards or movie tickets.
· You are promised cash rebates to cover the cost of your deductible.
Instead of falling for these tactics contact your carrier first before signing any contract or agreeing to pay for repair work. Your provider can help you determine the best options and will ultimately save you time, money and headaches.