6 Steps to Take if Your Vehicle Is Damaged by Hail

Hailstorms can cause extensive damage to your vehicle and result in costly repairs. If your car has been affected by hail, it’s important to know the steps to take to ensure it is properly repaired. Follow this guide to navigate the process of dealing with a hail-damaged car.

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Dangers of Hail Damage

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Hail can cause significant damage to a vehicle, including:

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• Dents: Small dents all over the body of your car.
• Broken Windshields: Leading to water damage, mold, or mildew inside the car.
• Rust: If dents are not repaired, they can lead to rust that compromises the structural integrity of your vehicle.

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Steps to Take After Your Car Is Damaged by Hail

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1. Take Pictures

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The first thing you should do after a hailstorm is document the damage:

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• Wide Shots: Take pictures of the entire car from different angles.
• Close-Ups: Capture detailed images of the dents and any broken windshields or windows.

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These photos will be essential when filing an insurance claim.

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2. Contact Your Insurance Provider

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Inform your insurance provider about the hail damage as soon as possible:

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• Initial Contact: Let them know you will be filing a claim.
• Claim Process: Ask about the steps needed to file a claim and gather any required documentation.

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Your insurance company may want to send an adjuster to take their own pictures before you begin any cleanup.

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3. File a Claim

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If your insurance policy covers hail damage, file a claim:

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• Comprehensive Coverage: Hail damage is usually covered under comprehensive insurance plans.
• Claim Submission: Use your insurance company’s mobile app or website to submit photos and manage your claim.

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If you have liability insurance, you may need to cover the repairs yourself.

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4. Clean Your Car

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Before getting an estimate, clean your car to assess the full extent of the damage:

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• Interior Cleanup: If your windshield is broken, cover the car to prevent water damage and clean up any broken glass.
• Exterior Cleanup: Wash off dust and dirt to ensure all damage is visible.

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5. Get an Estimate

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Contact a local hail damage repair service for an estimate:

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• Schedule an Evaluation: Have a professional evaluate the damage and provide a cost estimate.
• Insurance Coordination: Ensure the repair service can coordinate directly with your insurance company if needed.

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Be aware that severe damage may result in your car being totaled, but you can still choose to repair it without insurance help if desired.

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6. Schedule Your Repair

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Once your claim is settled, schedule the repair:

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• Arrange Transportation: Plan for alternative transportation while your car is being repaired.
• Repair Time: Most hail damage repairs take one to two days, depending on the extent of the damage.

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Start Fixing Your Hail-Damaged Car

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Fixing a hail-damaged car may seem overwhelming, but following these steps can simplify the process. Remember to document the damage, contact your insurance provider, file a claim, clean your car, get an estimate, and schedule the repair.

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For a quick assessment of your hail damage repair needs, take advantage of our FREE 3-Minute Estimate. Contact us today to get started on repairing your vehicle.

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