Hail can strike the East Coast, the West Coast, and anywhere in between — sometimes quite unexpectedly. Esurance believes in being prepared, even when the unexpected happens, which is why we've compiled the following tips to help you and your car weather the next hailstorm.
If a hailstorm is heading your way ...
Stay inside (if you can). If you're outdoors, seek protection under awnings and get inside as soon as you can. Hail can travel at a speed of 120 mph, so even if the hail is pea-size it can cause significant damage.
To protect your car, park it in a garage or a covered parking space. If this isn't possible, cover it with heavy blankets, focusing especially on the roof, hood, and trunk — these are the parts most susceptible to damage.
If you're caught in a hailstorm while on the road ...
Don't get out of your car. Let your car absorb the impact while you pull over to safety. If you can pull into a covered area, such as an overpass or parking structure, great! You'll be able to keep vehicle damage to a minimum. If you can't find adequate shelter, just pull over to the side of the road.
After you've pulled over, try to keep your car angled so the hail hits the front the hardest. Windshields are reinforced, but side and rear windows are not. Make sure to keep your back to the windows and lie down if you can. If you have a blanket, cover yourself to prevent broken glass from hitting you.
We also recommend staying in your car until the storm has passed. After the storm is over, exit the vehicle to assess the damage. If any of your car's windows have been broken, remove the glass carefully to prevent cuts.
If your car has suffered hail damage ...
Follow Esurance's tips on repairing hail damage and you'll be back on the road in no time.
Typically, your comprehensive auto insurance coverage will help pay for damages caused by severe weather and natural disasters. If your car has sustained damage, contact your insurance company immediately to report the claim. If you're an Esurance policyholder, you can report claims online, through our mobile apps, or by calling 1-800-ESURANCE
(1-800-378-7262).
Next, find a body shop you trust. If you don't have a preferred body shop, Esurance can help you select one through our E-star® Direct Repair Program. Estimates written by shops affiliated with Esurance are free. And if you choose to have your vehicle repaired at one of these preferred shops, it's likely that you'll get your auto insurance claim resolved faster.
Before the repairs begin, be sure to discuss your repair with your insurance company and your body shop. Weigh the available options. These days, most minor damage to sheet metal can be repaired using Paintless Dent Removal (PDR), and small windshield nicks can be easily fixed without replacing the entire windshield.
Once the repairs are done, make sure you're satisfied with the repairs. Check for any remaining dents before you take your car back. If possible, get a written guarantee from the shop before you leave. If you choose an E-star facility, the repairs are guaranteed for as long as you own your vehicle.
Follow our safety advice and consider getting comprehensive coverage on your vehicle. The next time a hailstorm hits, you'll be prepared.