Springtime in Texas is synonymous with bluebonnets and other vibrant native wildflowers like lazy daisies, Indian paintbrushes, and black-eyed Susans. The Texas Hill Country is famous for its breathtaking wildflower displays, which have become a painter’s paradise. While splashes of color are popping all around the state, springtime in Texas also brings rain, and with the rain can come severe weather due to the clash between the cold winter air and the warm spring air. At Ag Workers, we refer to it as “hail season,” where damage due to hail is severe enough to file a claim.
Hail damage can strike unexpectedly, leaving your vehicle with costly dents, broken windows, and severe paint damage. Repairing hail damage isn’t just inconvenient—it’s also pricey, with repairs ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The good news? With proper precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of hail damage and keep your vehicle in pristine condition.
This guide will walk you through seven practical and effective ways to protect your vehicle from hail damage, giving you peace of mind during storm season.
Why is Hail Damage a Growing Concern?
Hailstorms are becoming more frequent and severe. Even small hailstones can cause considerable damage when propelled by high winds, making it crucial for car owners to be prepared.
The best defense? Prevention. You can save money, reduce stress, and protect your investment by following these steps.
1. Park in a Covered Area or Garage
Parking under shelter is the most straightforward and effective way to protect your vehicle from hail. A sturdy roof provides a barrier between your car and falling hailstones, minimizing the chances of damage.
What to Do:
- At home, always use your garage for parking if one is available.
- If you don’t have a garage, consider installing a carport. While it requires some investment upfront, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs.
- When you are away from home, look for parking garages or covered areas, especially if hail is in the forecast.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on weather alerts to plan and ensure your vehicle is parked in the safest location.
2. Invest in a Hail Protection Car Cover
If covered parking isn’t an option, invest in a hail protection car cover. These padded and weather-resistant covers are explicitly designed to absorb and deflect the impact of hailstones, shielding your vehicle from dents and scratches.
How to Choose:
- Look for inflatable or anti-hail car covers that offer additional padding, such as a Hail Protector.
- Ensure the cover fits your car model for maximum protection.
- Opt for a lightweight, foldable design for portability so it can be used at home and on the go.
While car covers don’t protect against extremely large hailstones, they may still lessen the impact and are an excellent solution for smaller to medium-sized hailstones.
3. Monitor Weather Forecasts and Plan Accordingly
Advanced weather forecasting tools make it easier than ever to predict hailstorms. Use these resources to stay informed and proactive.
Best Practices:
- Download weather apps like AccuWeather or The Weather Channel that provide customizable storm alerts.
- Subscribe to SMS or email alerts from local weather services, especially during hail-prone seasons.
- If hail is forecasted and you don’t have covered parking, move your car to a secure location before the storm begins.
Being proactive can save you from last-minute panic and potential damage.
4. Use Temporary Shields for Emergencies
Caught off guard by a sudden hailstorm? Don’t panic—there are measures you can take. Use everyday items to protect your vehicle when a garage or cover isn’t available.
Ideas:
- Blankets or large towels can act as makeshift padding. You’ll need to secure them tightly to prevent them from blowing away.
- Thick floor mats can protect your vehicle’s glass and roof. Place them flat on vulnerable areas.
- If you’re near dense vegetation, use tree canopies for natural protection, but ensure there’s no risk of falling branches.
Remember, these solutions are temporary and may not fully protect your car from damage. A proper car cover is always a better long-term investment.
5. Look Into Covered Parking Memberships
Many urban areas offer monthly memberships for covered parking garages. If your home doesn’t have a garage, these memberships can be a cost-effective way to ensure your car is safe during inclement weather.
Benefits:
- Guaranteed access to covered parking, even during busy hours or peak seasons.
- Fixed monthly fees often cost less than hail repairs.
- Some locations also provide additional services, such as vehicle washing or maintenance.
This option is handy if you live in a city or frequently park in high-risk areas.
6. Install Hail Guards on Skylights and Windows
If you park in an open area, your vehicle’s glass surfaces—such as the windshield, skylights, and windows—are especially vulnerable to hail. Installing hail guards or shields for these areas can provide added protection against breakage.
Types of Hail Guards:
- Static Hail Guards: A fixed, transparent film that reinforces glass.
- Removable Guards: Portable shields you can install during hailstorms.
These guards complement other protective measures, keeping the vehicle and most fragile parts safe.
7. Get Insurance Coverage
While preventive measures go a long way, you can’t always predict the severity of a storm. Comprehensive coverage on your vehicle will pay for a loss caused by hail, minus any applicable deductible and acts as an essential safety net.
What Comprehensive Coverage May Cover:
- Repair costs for dents, shattered windows, and paint damage caused by hail.
- If hail causes severe irreparable damage, comprehensive coverage will pay for the actual cash value of your vehicle minus any applicable deductible.
Next Steps: Review your current policy or speak with a representative in our policy services department here at Ag Workers to discuss details of your policy to ensure your vehicle is properly protected with comprehensive coverage.
Final Thoughts on Keeping Your Car Protected
From installing car covers to monitoring weather forecasts, protecting your vehicle from hail damage requires a combination of planning and action. If you’re in a hail-prone area, prioritizing these preventive measures is a smart way to safeguard your valuable investment.
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If you are an Ag Workers policyholder and your vehicle has suffered hail damage, please call our 24/7 claims reporting line (508) 365-2692 to report a new claim.