Dents and dings from a hailstorm can leave cars in less than perfect condition. While it’s always possible to arrange for auto hail damage repairs, these flaws are also preventable. If the forecast calls for bad weather, follow these preventative steps to keep your vehicle damage-free.

How to Protect Your Car From Hail

1. Drive Strategically

If you're on the road when a hailstorm hits, try to pull over under a bridge or in a tunnel. These can serve as temporary shelters while you wait for the weather to pass. Try to avoid letting hailstones impact side windows since they're made of tempered glass. These panes are designed to shatter in case of accidents, and while this is useful if passengers need to escape a damaged vehicle, it can be a liability during severe weather.

2. Find Sheltered Parking

Covered parking can effectively safeguard your vehicle from hail-related dents. If your home doesn't have a garage or carport, it may be worth investing in one to prevent the need for auto hail damage repairs. You can also rent space in an enclosed parking garage if you live in the city.

If there are no sheltered areas nearby, check the weather forecast to determine which direction the wind will blow. Park the vehicle on the opposite side of a large building. For instance, when a storm comes in from the north, the most sheltered area will be along the structure's southern wall.

3. Plan Ahead

Set up notifications on your smartphone to alert you to certain types of storms. If your vehicle isn't parked under a structure, pad it with tarps, blankets, or other nonabrasive materials to dampen impacts. Secure coverings with tape or bungee cords to prevent high winds from blowing them away. If you don't have enough padding to cover the entire car, focus on protecting the windows. It’s easier to remove small body dents than it is to replace an entire pane of glass.

If you need auto hail damage repair, reach out to Highway 242 Auto Body & Sales in Malvern, IA. This small, local business has been providing area drivers with affordable auto body repairs since 1990. Their team offers paintless dent repair, and they can seamlessly coax small dings back into shape without harming the factory finish. Call (712) 527-0311 to speak to a technician and schedule an appointment, or learn more about their auto hail damage repair services online.