In the U.S., hail storms cause about $1 billion in property damage annually. It can tear up your home's siding, dent gutters, crack downspouts, and break auto glass windows. Luckily, you can avoid the cost of repairing the exterior of your car by taking preventive measures. Here are some tips to protect it before a storm arrives. 

3 Tips to Protect Your Car Before a Storm

1. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Make sure your insurance policy provides comprehensive coverage. This allows you to repair your car or replace broken parts such as auto glass without incurring huge out-of-pocket expenses. To find out what is covered, speak to your insurance agent. Also, thoroughly read your insurance policy, especially the fine print, to make sure you don't miss important details. 

2. Park Your Car Under Cover

Your car will be safest from hail storm damage if parked in a covered space like a garage, shed, or carport. If you do not have access to a covered parking space on your property, the next safe place is a nearby car park or mall with covered parking. If you are caught in a hailstorm while driving, look for a shelter with a strong roof structure and pull over. Then, wait until the storm passes before taking your car out on the road. 

3. Use a Padded Car Cover

If you don’t have access to a shelter, covering your car is the next best way to keep your auto glass and the rest of the vehicle exterior safe from hail storm damage. Padded covers are designed to lessen the impact of hail when it hits your car. Make sure you get one specifically for hail and not just for sun and rain. You can also use layers of blankets or comforters and tape them down. 

If a hail storm has damaged your auto glass, you can't drive around until you have it replaced. Rochester Auto Glass & Mirror Co. in New York is a car glass specialist, and they will work hard to get your window and door glass looking good as new. They offer same-day service so that you can be back on the road in no time. Call (585) 454-1850 to speak to a representative or visit their website to learn more about their services.