As much as we’d like to, we can’t control the weather. While hail may not be as catastrophic as tornadoes or earthquakes, these storms still cause a good amount of harm–approximately $1 billion in damage to crops and property each year. But how can you prevent or prepare for that damage?
How To Protect Your Car From Hail Damage
Get the Right Insurance
It’s important to have insurance to keep you protected. For specific damage caused by the elements, like weather or fire, comprehensive insurance is a good option to cover hail damage. Rental coverage is another good option to have, as it can help pay for a rental car while your car is being fixed or replaced.
Covered Parking
It’s an obvious solution, but a very good one. Covered parking can save you a lot of stress and money, especially here in the midwest. If covered parking is accessible to you, keeping your car there is probably your best bet if a hailstorm is on the horizon.
Ride Out the Storm
If covered parking isn’t an option where you regularly park your vehicle, there may be some nearby where you can park temporarily. Some local malls or other parking structures may be somewhere you can keep your car while you ride out the storm. It may cost you a few dollars to pay for access, but will prevent you from further costs in repairs later on.
Hail Car Cover
If sheltering your car isn’t an option for you and you know a storm is coming, the best thing you can do is get some sort of protection over your car. There are some car covers designed specifically for hail, which are a good investment if this is your situation. Otherwise, you can use your own blankets, secured against the wind with tape. It may leave some sticky residue on your car, but won’t cause any lasting damage and can be cleaned off. However, you have to prepare in advance with this option. Your personal safety is most important, so covering your car as hail starts to come down shouldn’t be your first priority.
Sometimes though, hail damage can’t be avoided. A hailstorm might catch you by surprise, your car cover could come loose, or you might not be able to get out to protect your car in time. If your vehicle does sustain hail damage, here’s some mistakes to avoid.
