Colorado Zero-Deductible Glass Coverage: Your Complete Guide

Colorado Revised Statute 10-4-613 requires every auto insurance company operating in the state to offer zero-deductible glass coverage, which means most Colorado drivers with comprehensive insurance pay $0 out of pocket for windshield replacement. The law mandates that insurers make this coverage available, and in practice the majority of Colorado comprehensive policies include it by default. Coverage typically pays for the glass, professional installation labor, adhesive materials, ADAS camera calibration if your vehicle requires it, and mobile service. Filing a glass-only claim will not raise your insurance rates. The law exists because Colorado conditions like highway construction debris, extreme temperature swings, and frequent hailstorms make windshield damage essentially unavoidable for drivers in the state.

Colorado drivers get a significant advantage when it comes to windshield replacement costs. State law requires every auto insurance company operating in Colorado to offer zero-deductible glass coverage. This means that many Colorado drivers pay $0 out of pocket for a full windshield replacement -- including labor, glass, and even ADAS calibration.

The Law: CRS 10-4-613

Colorado Revised Statute 10-4-613 is the legal foundation for zero-deductible glass coverage in the state. The law states that every insurer writing comprehensive automobile insurance in Colorado must offer zero-deductible coverage for the repair or replacement of safety glazing materials (windshields, side windows, and rear windows).

The critical word here is “offer.” The law does not require insurers to automatically include zero-deductible glass coverage in every policy. It requires them to make it available as an option. However, in practice, the majority of Colorado auto insurance policies include it by default as part of their comprehensive coverage package.

Do You Have Zero-Deductible Glass Coverage?

Most Colorado drivers with comprehensive coverage already have it. Here is how to find out:

• Check your declarations page: This is the summary page of your policy that lists all your coverages and deductibles. Look for a line item mentioning “glass coverage,” “safety glazing,” or “comprehensive glass deductible: $0.”
• Call your insurance agent: Ask specifically: “Do I have zero-deductible glass coverage under my comprehensive policy?”
• Check your online portal: Most insurers let you view your policy details online. Look under comprehensive coverage for glass-specific deductible information.

Coverage by Major Insurer in Colorado

Why Colorado Has This Law

Colorado's glass coverage law exists because of the state's uniquely harsh conditions for windshields. The combination of factors that make Colorado one of the worst states for windshield damage includes:

• Gravel and construction debris: Colorado's extensive highway construction (I-25, I-70, US-36) kicks up rocks and debris constantly
• Extreme temperature swings: Daily temperature variations of 40 to 60 degrees, especially in spring and fall, cause existing chips to spread rapidly into cracks
• Hailstorms: Colorado ranks in the top three states for hail damage, with the Front Range corridor being particularly vulnerable from May through September
• Altitude and UV exposure: Higher UV radiation at altitude degrades windshield sealant and can weaken glass over time

The legislature recognized that windshield damage is essentially unavoidable for Colorado drivers, and requiring insurers to offer zero-deductible coverage prevents drivers from delaying critical safety repairs due to cost concerns.

What the Coverage Includes

When your windshield replacement is covered under Colorado's zero-deductible glass provision, the insurance claim typically covers:

• The windshield glass itself (OEM or aftermarket, depending on your policy and shop)
• Professional installation labor
• Urethane adhesive and molding materials
• ADAS camera calibration if your vehicle requires it
• Mobile service (if the installer offers it)

Will a Glass Claim Raise My Rates?

No. Colorado law and industry practice both protect you here. Glass-only comprehensive claims are treated as no-fault events and do not affect your insurance premiums. This applies to both chip repairs and full windshield replacements. You should never hesitate to file a glass claim out of fear of a rate increase.

What If You Do Not Have Coverage?

If you only carry liability insurance or specifically opted out of glass coverage, you will need to pay out of pocket. The typical cost for windshield replacement in the Denver metro area ranges from $250 to $800 depending on your vehicle. Consider adding zero-deductible glass coverage at your next renewal -- it typically adds only $1 to $5 per month to your premium in Colorado. For cash-pay options, see our guide on windshield replacement cost without insurance.

How to Use Your Coverage

Using your zero-deductible glass coverage is simple. Call your insurer to open a claim (or let your auto glass company do it for you), get a claim number, and schedule the replacement. You will pay nothing at the time of service. Most mobile installers can come to your home or workplace, and the entire process takes about 60 to 90 minutes. For more details on the claims process, see our insurance coverage guide.