Nature has some impressive abilities when it comes to causing property damage, from tornadoes to high winds and snow storms. One of the most common and destructive, however, is hail. Peaking in the summer in many central and western states, hail causes millions of dollars' worth of damage to cars, buildings, and other structures and items every year. Fortunately, while hail can’t be prevented, it’s possible to protect your vehicle from hail damage with just a few basic precautions. Here’s what you can do to keep your car or truck safe.

How Can You Protect Your Vehicle from Hail Damage?

1. Check Weather Forecasts

The most effective way to avoid hail damage is to check your local weather reports regularly. Meteorologists can’t always predict when a hailstorm will strike, but they can search for conditions that indicate the risk of hail and warn the public accordingly. During the hail season from May to July, check the weather report before every road trip or before heading to work or to run errands. Knowing whether there’s a risk of hail will give you valuable time to plan to park in a sheltered area or delay your trip if it’s not urgent.

2. Park Under Cover

If you do venture out during hail season, look for covered areas under which you can park. Parking garages, carports, or even the area under a tree can provide valuable shelter that will reduce the risk of hail damage.

It’s still possible for hailstones to strike your car when parked under shelter, but the resulting damage will be much less extensive and consequently less costly or complicated to repair. If you don’t have a garage at home, consider investing in a carport to protect your car or truck from sudden hailstorms.

3. Use a Car Cover

If you know a hailstorm is coming and you don’t have a sheltered area available, cover the vehicle with any sturdy material to minimize potential hail damage. You can find purpose-made hail covers at local auto parts suppliers or online. Even if you don’t have a car cover, you can wrap your vehicle in old blankets or towels to reduce the impact of hailstones. If you have to resort to towels and blankets, use paint-safe tape, such as masking tape, to secure them in place; tougher varieties like duct tape can leave a harmful residue on auto paint.

If your car has recently suffered hail damage, count on the team at Miracle Workers Auto Collision Center in Lincoln, NE, to restore it to its original condition. Serving area drivers for over three decades, the experts at this body shop can address a wide range of issues affecting cars and trucks of all kinds. They also work with all insurance providers to help you restore your vehicle at a minimal out-of-pocket cost. Call (402) 474-7355 to schedule a repair appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.