In 2017, there were 6,045 major hail storms in the U.S. that caused about $1.8 billion damage to property and crops. Hail may not seem that scary in a home, but what about if you are in your car with all that glass?
You are driving along when it suddenly starts to hail. Here’s what to do when driving in a hailstorm.
First Actions When Driving in a Hailstorm
As soon as it starts to hail, stop your car immediately. Be safe though and turn on your flashers and low beam lights so other drivers can see you. Try to get under an overpass or another kind of shelter like a gas station awning if possible.
Stay there until it blows over. Do not drive your car because driving increases the impact of the hail. Do not leave your vehicle because hail causes serious bodily injury.
Other Things to Remember
If you can’t get under a shelter, it’s important that you still pull over. Keep your car angeled do the hail hits the front of your car because windshields can withstand more force than side or your back windows. Be sure you give yourself more distance from the back bumper of the car in front of you—probably the three times the normal distance.
Lie down in your car if possible and cover with a blanket to protect yourself from debris and keep your face away from the windows. Wait a minute or two after the hail stops to get out of your vehicle. Sometimes the hail can start again.
Watch out for other drivers because they may know how to handle driving in hail. Make sure your car is completely off the roadway because it will be hard for other drivers to see you.
Do not drive on roads covered with water—find an alternate route. Even six inches of water can cause you to lose control and stall your vehicle. Two feet of water can carry away most vehicles even trucks and SUVs.
What to Do If a Hailstorm Damages Your Car
If your car sustains hail damage, you will most likely need to get repairs done. It’s important to call your insurance company right away to report your claim. Your insurance representative will tell you the best ways to handle repairs and will inspect your vehicle.
You may need to get your windshield repaired or replaced. Most likely, you will have to have dents removed and possibly need new paint. Some dents can get removed without retouching the paint—it all depends on the severity of your car’s damage.
Most insurance policies will cover a portion of a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired if needed. Make sure your vehicle is repaired to your satisfaction before taking your vehicle home.
Contact the Experts
If you are looking for an expert to repair damages from a hailstorm, contact Colorado Hail Solutions today. We will work with your insurance company to get your car repaired and will help you get back on the road.
