After Hailstorms - FAQs

Hailstorms are unpredictable, and you cannot really prepare for them. Colorado experiences about 234 hailstorms annually and ranks first for hail loss per capita. In 2017, the most expensive hailstorm hit the Denver metro area, resulting in $2.3 billion in damages. Knowing what to do with a hail-dented vehicle is crucial to preserving its value and appearance. Here’s a list of FAQs to help you navigate the aftermath of hail damage.

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Preventing Vehicle Hail Damage

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Take preventative measures to ensure your vehicle is not severely damaged during a storm:

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• Park Inside: Use a garage or carport if available.
• Cover the Vehicle: Use a blanket, car cover, or painter’s cloth if you cannot park under a roof.
• Seek Shelter While Driving: Pull into a bank drive-thru, car wash, gas station awning, or stop under a freeway overpass during a storm.

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What Actions Do I Take After Hailstorms?

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Assess the Damage:

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• Perform a complete walk-around of your vehicle.
• Take photos and videos to document the damage from all angles.

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File an Insurance Claim:

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• Use the photo documentation to support your claim.
• Get the repairs done as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

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Can I File an Insurance Claim?

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Insurance coverage for hail damage varies among companies. Check your policy or talk to your insurance agent to confirm if you are covered for natural disasters, including hail.

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Why Is My Insurance Requesting a Salvage Title?

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If your insurance company requests a salvage title for hail damage, they may be violating Colorado Revised Statute §42-6-102(17)(a). The statute excludes hail damage from salvage vehicle determinations. However, if the repair cost exceeds the vehicle's value, the insurance company can declare it a total loss and provide the appropriate payout.

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What if a Second Hailstorm Causes Additional Damage?

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If a second hailstorm causes additional damage, take new photos and notify your insurance company. They will assess the new damage and issue payment, subtracting the amount from the original damage payment. The comprehensive deductible applies to both claims.

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Should I Clean My Car Before Evaluation?

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Yes, clean your vehicle to give the estimator a clear view of the damage. This will help in accurately assessing the hail damage.

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Does Repaired Hail Damage Lower Vehicle Value?

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Hail damage repairs should not significantly lower the vehicle's value if done professionally. Ensure your insurance claim is accurately reported to avoid issues on vehicle history reports like CARFAX.

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How Do I Evaluate Hail Damage?

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A professional examination typically includes:

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1. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR): Labor and time for fixing dents.
2. Remove and Install (R&I): Labor for removing and reinstalling parts.
3. Part Replacements: Costs for replacing windshields, chrome moldings, etc.
4. Sales Tax: Colorado includes sales tax on parts, not labor.

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Additional damage to paint may require body repairs and repainting.

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How Long Does a Repair Estimate Take?

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The time to receive an estimate varies by service. 48-Hour Auto Hail Repair offers:

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• 3-Minute Estimates: Quick, online estimates.
• 1-Hour Custom Estimates: Detailed in-person assessments.

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Once repairs are scheduled, they complete the job in 48 hours, and full insurance coverage means no out-of-pocket costs.

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Quick and Easy Repair Estimates with 48-Hour Auto Hail Repair

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When hailstorms leave your vehicle looking like a golf ball, you need a quick and easy repair estimate. 48-Hour Auto Hail Repair technicians have over 10 years of experience protecting vehicle integrity. We offer:

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• 48-Hour Repairs: Fast, reliable service.
• Free Estimates: Both 3-minute and custom options available.
• Full Insurance Coverage: No out-of-pocket costs if fully covered.

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Contact Us: Schedule your estimate online or call us at (720) 734-5148 to protect your vehicle's value.