Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash
Unpredictable weather is more common than ever today, as global warming has led to changes in the ecosystem. When storm clouds gather and hail becomes a threat, car owners must act quickly and smartly. A single hailstorm can leave your vehicle dented, cracked, or even unsafe.
In cities like Denver, where hailstorms are frequent, car owners should be extra cautious. CPR News reported that the Denver metro area witnessed a severe hailstorm in May 2024, which caused nearly $2 billion in damage. Many homes, businesses, and cars were battered. Some car owners had to seek paintless dent repair in Denver after this hailstorm.
An even better option for car owners is to be prepared with some proactive measures to safeguard their vehicles. Preparation saves money on repairs, extends your vehicle’s lifespan, and maintains its value. With hailstorms growing more frequent and severe, knowing how to protect your car is crucial for any responsible vehicle owner.
Staying informed is the first and easiest line of defense. Checking weather forecasts is common among Americans. According to YouGov, half of them check the daily forecast at least once a day on their phone, radio, or television. Most of them trust the information because they consider these sources accurate.
Modern weather apps, text alerts, and local meteorological services offer real-time storm warnings. People in hail-prone areas should sign up for alerts, as it will give them enough time to move their vehicles before a storm strikes. Double-check the daily forecast during hail season, especially if your area or route includes known storm hotspots.
Be extra conscious when going out because nothing is worse than being hit when you cannot find shelter. Plan trips and errands around storm advisories whenever possible to reduce the risk of getting caught outdoors with your car.
If you live in a hail-prone area, you must ensure that a covered parking area is available for your car. A home garage is a good investment, though it can be a massive expense for homeowners in some states. Realtor.com notes that private garages are extremely expensive in California and Massachusetts. In Cambridge, MA, the average garage space costs an exorbitant $1,318,306.
If a home garage does not fit into your budget, look for community-covered parking to protect your vehicle during adverse weather events. Temporary carports are affordable, quick to assemble, and effective for seasonal use, making them a good option. Negotiate with your employer or building management for temporary solutions during severe weather seasons.
Even parking beside large buildings or structures that provide wind-blocking can reduce exposure compared to open areas. Have your options sorted well before the hail season arrives so that you don’t have to scramble at the last moment.
You don’t need to worry if you lack consistent covered parking. A hail-resistant car cover can be a savior for your vehicle. Unlike standard car covers, these are designed for hail and feature multilayer, padded materials that absorb impact and shield the most vulnerable parts of your car. Hail covers can reduce or even prevent dings, cracks, and shattered glass.
For budget protection, you can use thick blankets or even old floor mats. They can be quickly tucked around your car, with ends secured in doors, trunk, or windows. When doing this, ensure you can still get back inside if you need to. Remember to fold in side-view mirrors and secure anything that could be cracked by flying hail.
Routine maintenance makes your car less vulnerable to damage, even when a hailstorm arrives. A proactive approach includes inspecting and repairing small chips or cracks in windshields and sunroofs promptly. If you overlook these, hail might turn minor damage into expensive repairs.
Mile High Dents recommends paintless dent repair, as this method eliminates the need for expensive paint work and extended waits at the body shop. Look for experts specializing in this technique to get quick and effective results without spending a lot of time and money.
Regular repair of the dented roofs, hoods, or trunks preserves structural integrity and prevents rust. Additionally, keep an eye on the integrity of weather sealing and door gaskets to avoid water intrusion after a severe storm.
Full coverage insurance typically covers hail and other weather-related damage. According to CNBC, full coverage insurance includes both collision and comprehensive coverage. This means that you can claim damages even for non-collision events, such as a hailstorm and other severe weather incidents.
Although getting the right policy may not directly safeguard your vehicle from hail damage, it supports you financially if the worst happens. Review your policy to confirm hail is included and ask about any deductible or exclusions. If you live in a region known for hail, it may be worth increasing coverage, given how costly car repairs can be.
Photograph and document your vehicle’s condition before the hail season so you have proof of its prior state if you need to file a claim. Also, ensure that you present accurate information to avoid denials.
If you encounter a hailstorm while driving, safety should be a priority. Pull over as soon as it is safe. Look for gas stations, parking garages, or large awnings, but never stop under trees or power lines. If no shelter is available, stay in the vehicle, switch on hazard lights, and angle your car so the hail impacts your windshield rather than side or rear glass.
Yes, hail can crack, dent, or even shatter a car’s sunroof. Small hail may only leave pocks or minor cracks, but bigger stones can break the glass entirely, leaving the cabin exposed to rain and debris. Although repair is possible, most shops may recommend replacing a damaged sunroof.
Insurance payouts for hail damage vary, depending on your coverage. If you have comprehensive coverage, most repairs (minus your deductible) are covered up to either the actual cash value or the replacement cost of your vehicle. You need to document damage with photos and detailed notes right after a storm and file your claim promptly.
Hailstorm season can be a tough time for car owners, with every forecast bringing stress and the actual event causing some damage. Being proactive and prepared for the hailstorm season saves frustration and money. You can rely on these actionable measures to protect your vehicle, reduce your risk, and keep yourself safe during unpredictable weather.
