Finding your car covered in dents after a hailstorm can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—there are clear steps you can take to address the damage. Whether it’s your first time dealing with hail damage or you’re unsure where to start, this guide will walk you through what to do next.
Assess the Damage
The first thing to do is carefully inspect your car. Look for visible dents, cracked or broken windows, and check the roof, hood, and trunk as these areas tend to take the brunt of hail damage. Don’t forget to examine side mirrors and any plastic trim pieces as they can also be affected. Severe dents might be easy to spot, but smaller ones can also cause problems over time if left unaddressed.
Take photos of the damage from multiple angles, both for your own records and to share with your insurance provider later. This documentation will help streamline your claim process.
Tip:
If your car’s paintwork has been cracked or chipped, address it promptly to avoid rust formation.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Once you’ve assessed the damage, reach out to your insurance company to determine your coverage. Most comprehensive auto insurance policies cover hail damage, but it’s crucial to confirm your specific policy details.
During your conversation:
- Inform them about the hail damage and provide a thorough description.
- Share photos of the damage to support your claim.
- Ask about the deductible amount and how it applies to hail damage repair.
Your insurer will likely guide you on the next steps, which may include arranging an inspection to assess repair costs. Keep track of all correspondence for future reference.
Important Note:
Filing a hail damage claim typically doesn’t increase your insurance premiums, as it is considered an “act of nature” beyond your control. However, always double-check with your provider.
Select a Reliable Auto Repair Shop
After filing your claim, you’ll need a high-quality repair shop to get your car fixed. Some insurance companies may recommend certified repair shops, but you can often choose a facility you trust.
When selecting a shop:
- Research repair shops with experience.
- Look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers.
- Ensure they offer paintless dent repair (PDR).
Most repair shops offer free consultations or estimates, which can help you compare costs and timelines before making a decision.
Tip:
Don’t delay repairs! Even minor dents can weaken your car’s structure or lower its resale value if left untreated.
Explore Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)
One of the most popular repair methods for hail damage is paintless dent repair (PDR). Using specialized tools, technicians gently push dents out from the underside of the panel, leaving your car looking as good as new.
Benefits of PDR:
- Preserves Original Paint: Unlike conventional methods, PDR doesn’t require repainting.
- Cost-Effective: It is generally more affordable than traditional repairs.
- Quick Turnaround: Repair times are usually shorter, meaning you’ll get your car back sooner.
However, PDR isn’t suitable for major damage, such as large dents or areas where the paint has been cracked. If that’s the case, conventional dent repair may be needed.
Protect Your Car from Future Hailstorms
After getting your car repaired, take these preventive measures to avoid future hail damage:
- Park in Covered Areas: Use garages or covered parking spaces whenever possible.
- Invest in a Car Cover: Use a padded hail car cover specifically designed to minimize impact damage.
- Monitor Weather Reports: Stay informed about severe weather forecasts and move your car to safety ahead of time.
Pro Tip:
If you live in a hail-prone area, consider adding coverage specifically for hail damage to your insurance policy if you don’t already have it.
Don’t Wait—Take Action Today
Hail damage may seem stressful, but tackling it head-on will save you long-term frustration. Assess the damage, report it to your insurer, and choose a trusted repair shop to restore your car to its original condition. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to a local repair shop that specializes in hail damage—they can guide you through the repair process.
Inland Empire Autobody & Paint: The Best in Southern California
At Inland Empire Autobody & Paint Inc., we are a family-owned business specializing in collision repair, windshield care, and custom paint jobs. We have locations in Riverside and Moreno Valley, California.
Call us (951-465-7350). Contact us through our website or using our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more information about our full range of services.