Hailstorms are not just any typical natural disaster, given that they cause damage to crops and vehicles worth billions of dollars every year. Hail can cause severe damage to your car and leave you with the stress of having to repair your hail-damaged vehicle. From broken windscreens, windshields, car dents, jammed doors, and windows, interior damaged due to water, etc.
Fortunately, body shops specializing in car hail damage repair, such as paintless dent repair, replacement, primer, full bodywork, etc., make it easy for you to restore your car to its good condition after hail damage. But there are preventive practices you can take to ensure the safety of your vehicle during hailstorms.
Listen to weather alerts.
Hailstorms mainly occur from March all through to June. During such seasons, ensure you get weather alerts every now and then to be in a better position to protect your car if a hailstorm is likely. You can sign up for weather alerts on your phone or listen to the local radio weather forecast. If a hailstorm is likely, park your car in the garage, or if you are going to work, ensure you find a safe parking spot.
If you are caught up by hail while driving, find safe parking
Whenever you are caught up by hail while driving, find a secure parking spot as soon as possible. You can use your google map to find a nearby parking garage or gas station, which may be a lot safer. Please drive slowly and carefully while at it.
Use blankets or floor mats if you don’t have a covered parking
It is not unusual to see car owners rushing with blankets and floormats to cover their cars when a hailstorm is likely. That is the perfect solution if you do not have a covered parking shelter. That may not be the best solution to prevent hail damage, such as dents, but it may minimize the damage and save you more money on hail damage repair. Again, it is wise to invest in a quality weatherproof cover as it comes in handy during nasty and severe weather.
Avoid parking under trees.
You may assume that parking under a tree will protect your car from hail damage, but it is not a safe option. If lightning strikes the tree during a severe hailstorm, the tree or branches may fall on your car and cause even severe damage. Instead, look for a backstreet or places with tents to park your vehicle. If you can find indoor parking the better.
Ensure your insurance cover is in order.
Regardless of the efforts you put into protecting your car from hail damage, a severe hailstorm can result in severe car damage. Ensure you have a comprehensive insurance policy that covers your vehicle in case of hail damage. Otherwise, you will suffer more out-of-pocket costs to repair the hail damage on your car. Read and understand the terms of your car insurance cover to ensure there is a part that specifically covers weather damage and hence hail damage.
The takeaway
Be creative with what you have whenever you are caught up in a hailstorm. During the hail season, always check weather updates before leaving the house and have a habit of carrying a blanket, floor mat, or weatherproof cover to cover your car if hail is likely to occur.
