Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, and Colorado are the states within “Hail Alley,” which is the area in America where hailstorms are the most frequent. Residents in this area commonly have to get hail damage repairs for their vehicles. If you are unlucky enough to experience damage caused by this weather phenomenon, you may be wondering what you can do to protect your car.

Why Hail Is So Dangerous for Vehicles

When excessively strong winds keep moisture in the air, it forms into a ball of ice that plummets to the earth once it becomes too heavy. These frozen projectiles have caused more than $5 billion in insured damage over the past ten years in Colorado.

The severity of the damage to your vehicle is dependent on a few factors. The first is the size of the hail. The longer it remains in the air, the bigger it gets. It can range anywhere from the size of a small pea to as large as softballs.

If the hail is falling straight to the ground, your vehicle can experience dents on the roof, hood, and trunk, as well as cracked or broken windshields. Also, when strong winds accompany the hail, it can attack your vehicle at an angle, resulting in door dings and broken side windows. In extreme cases, the storm can be so intense that it causes severe engine damage that totals a vehicle.

How to Protect Your Vehicle From Hail

To avoid hail damage repairs for your vehicle, take precautions when a storm is approaching. Hail is most common during thunderstorms because of the strong currents of air. You should monitor local weather reports to understand if you’re at risk.

Always try to park your car in a garage or covered area when possible. If you get caught in a storm on the road, pull over to minimize the amount of damage. Continuing to drive can strengthen the impact of hail on your car’s body and windshield. Keep a car cover in your truck and throw it on if you can’t find a covered place to park.

You should also purchase comprehensive auto insurance that covers storm damage. If you document the damage and file a claim, your insurance provider can cover some of the costs of dent removal and glass repairs.

 

If you require hail damage repairs for your vehicle, visit the experts at Auto Flex Hail in Golden, CO. As one of the area’s premier auto repair providers, they can handle a variety of problems caused by hail, and they even have mobile services so they can come to you. Schedule a free quote by calling (720) 338-6759 or learn more online.