Hailstorms can strike unexpectedly, exposing your car to damage such as dents, broken windshields, or scratched paint. In the aftermath of a storm, knowing what to do next is crucial for restoring your vehicle and preventing further complications. Whether your car has suffered minor cosmetic issues or significant structural damage, taking swift action is important.
If your car has been damaged by hail and you’re wondering what to do next, this blog is for you. This guide walks you through the key steps to ensure your repair journey is as smooth as possible.
Important Steps to Take After Hail Damage
Taking the right steps immediately after hail damage can save you time, money, and hassle. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do to get your car back in top condition
1. Assess the Damage
The first step after a hailstorm is to evaluate the damage to your car thoroughly. Depending on the size and force of the hailstones, the damage can vary from small dents and scratches to shattered windshields or significant body damage. Here’s what to look for:
- Exterior Damage: Check the car’s body panels, roof, and hood for dents or scratches. Large hailstones can leave visible damage, but smaller ones can create minor dents that are sometimes hard to notice. You may have to run your hand over the surface and feel out the damaged areas.
- Glass Damage: Examine the windshield, windows, and rear glass for cracks or shattering. Even minor chips in the glass can weaken its structural integrity, so don’t overlook any damage.
- Lights and Mirrors: Inspect your headlights, taillights, and side mirrors for cracks or breakage. Hail can sometimes hit these vulnerable areas, impairing your visibility on the road.
- Vehicle Interior: If your car windows were damaged or shattered during the storm, check the interior for water damage. Moisture inside the car can result in mold, electrical issues, or other long-term problems.
2. Take Detailed Photos
Once you’ve highlighted areas damaged by hail, you need to take pictures to help document it. Ensure you capture clear images from multiple angles, focusing on any dents, cracks, or other visible damage. These photos will be crucial for filing an insurance claim and providing evidence to repair shops for accurate estimates. Make sure to include close-ups of damaged areas, including wide-angle shots of the car’s overall condition.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve assessed the damage, the next crucial step is to contact your insurance provider. Hail damage is typically covered under comprehensive auto insurance. So, if you have this type of coverage, you should be eligible for compensation. When you reach out to your insurer, provide them with:
- Your policy number and contact details.
- A description of the damage.
- The photos you took of the damage.
- Relevant information about the hailstorm, including the date, time, and location.
Your insurance company may request you take the car to an approved repair shop for an official damage assessment or send an adjuster to inspect the vehicle. Inquire about your deductible and how much has to be paid out of pocket for the repairs.
4. Prevent Further Damage
If your vehicle has been significantly damaged, you should take additional measures to stop further damage. For instance, if the windows or windshield were shattered, use a plastic cover or tarp to protect openings temporarily. Keep your car in a garage or under a carport until repairs can be completed to prevent additional weather-related damage.
Moreover, if the car has significant structural issues, avoid driving until it’s repaired, especially if the windshield is cracked or the headlights are broken. They can make it dangerous to drive at night.
5. Find the Right Repair Specialist
To get an estimate of the cost of repairs, you will need to take your car to a repair facility. Your insurance company may provide a list of approved repair shops that handle hail damage, or you can find one yourself. However, choosing the right repair specialist is key to ensuring your car is properly restored.
Here are some tips to help you find a reliable professional:
- Check for Certifications: Look for repair shops with certifications to ensure technicians are properly trained.
- Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or your insurance company for trusted repair shops experienced in hail damage.
- Read Online Reviews: Check online reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp to get an idea of other customers’ experiences with the repair shop.
- Specialization in Hail Damage: Ensure the repair shop specializes in hail damage repairs, particularly Paintless Dent Repair (PDR), if the damage is minor.
- Warranty on Repairs: Ask whether the shop offers a warranty on their work to ensure long-term protection after the repairs are completed.
- Mobile Services: Some repair shops offer remote services, especially in states where hail storms are common. Like if you live in Texas, you can look for auto shops that provide mobile service of car repair in Temple, TX. This will save you the time and hassle of finding professional services in your area and getting your vehicle fixed at the right time.
6. Get an Estimate for Repairs
Once you’ve found the right repair shop, schedule an appointment and have your car inspected. Ask about the estimated cost, the time frame for repairs, and whether the shop will handle communication with your insurance company. Above all, get estimates from at least two or three repair shops to compare pricing and services before deciding.
The following are common repair options you may need to consider:
- Paintless Dent Repair (PDR): If the hail damage is mostly minor dents without any paint damage, paintless dent repair may be the ideal option. Technicians use special tools to massage the dents out of the car’s body panels, restoring them to their original shape.
- Traditional Auto Body Repair: For more severe hail damage, including deep dents or paint damage, traditional auto body repair may be necessary. This process typically involves sanding, filling, and repainting the damaged areas.
- Glass Repair or Replacement: If your windshield, windows, or mirrors are damaged, you’ll need to have the glass repaired or replaced. Depending on the extent of the damage, this could range from filling small chips to completely replacing the glass.
6. File a Claim and Follow Up
Once you’ve chosen a repair option, it’s time to file an official claim with your insurance provider. This process involves submitting the repair estimate, your photos, and any other required documentation.
If you’re working with an approved repair shop, they may handle much of this process for you, liaising with the insurance company to ensure payment. Make sure to follow up with the repair shop and your insurance provider to check on the status of your claim and repairs.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a hail-damaged car can be stressful, but knowing what steps to take can help streamline the process and ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-hail condition. After going through the hassle of repairing hail damage, you may find it wise to take preventative measures that can protect your vehicle from future hail damage, saving you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
Simple precautions such as parking under a covered area, investing in a car cover, and monitoring the weather can help protect your car and minimize damage.