Auto Insurance Claims: sun roofs, Unfair claim practice

Question
Hello,
I've been told by an insurance company that if a sunroof glass breaks for no apparent reason while driving and the only info they have to go on is the repair shop says it "appears to have been impacted", that a claim will be considered an at fault collision claim, because there was no other vehicle involved to be at fault, and the sunroof is considered as part of the body of the car unlike the windows, so is not covered under comprehensive like the windows would be...does this sound correct to you..it hardly seems right or fair.  Thank you.

Answer
Well, without reading the policy, it is hard to say exactly what is covered.  Generally speaking, the sunroof isn't really part of the "glass" portion of a policy, but it could be, just depends on the policy.  As far as how the sunroof got damaged, that is the important issue here.  If it was "impacted" then it should likely fall under collision coverage so long as it wasn't an animal that impacted it.  If it was an animal impact or hail or some other cause of damage, then the comprehensive (other than collision) portion of the policy would cover it.  Normally, the deductible is the same for collision or comprehensive.  

Finally, the underwriting department is the only department that can tell you for sure how filing the claim would affect your policy rates.  I would be surprised if this would be considered an "at fault" claim.  Again, generally speaking, claims have a point value and the insurance company adds up your points to determine which rate class you'll be in.  Points can be higher if the damage on the claim are extensive, so it is very hard to say what will happen to your rates if you file a claim.  Underwriting can tell you for sure.  Also, there are different rules in different states, the insurance department at your state may be able to shed some light on the processes.

I hope this helps!

JP