If you live in Texas, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. Hail storms are a frequent occurrence, especially during peak hail season, which typically runs from March through June. Texas experiences more hail storms than most other states, and these storms can cause thousands of dollars in damage to unprotected vehicles.
Hail damage can lower your car’s resale value, lead to costly repairs, and even create safety hazards. The good news? There are several ways to protect your car from hail damage and minimize your risk. Here are seven essential tips to keep your vehicle safe.
The Best Tips to Protect Your Car from Hail Damage
Tip #1: Park in a Garage or Covered Structure
The best way to protect your vehicle from hail damage is to park it in a garage or covered parking area whenever possible. If you don’t have access to a garage, consider investing in a carport or renting covered parking during the Texas hail season.
Tip #2: Use a Hail Cover or Car Cover
A hail blanket or specialized car hail cover can provide a layer of protection against falling hailstones. These covers are designed to absorb impact and prevent dents and cracks. If you don’t have a hail-specific cover, even a thick blanket or padded car cover can help reduce damage.
Tip #3: Park Near Buildings or Under Bridges in an Emergency
If a Texas hail storm is approaching and you don’t have access to a garage, try to park next to a large building or under a bridge for protection. These structures can provide partial cover and reduce the impact of hailstones on your car.
Tip #4: Check Weather Alerts to Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to avoid hail damage is to stay informed. Use weather apps or sign up for severe weather alerts to get notified of incoming hail storms. This allows you to move your car to a safer location before the storm hits.
Tip #5: Consider Adding Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
If you live in a hail-prone area, comprehensive auto insurance can be a lifesaver. Many policies cover hail damage repair, so you won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for repairs. Be sure to check your policy and understand your coverage in case a storm strikes.
Tip #6: Fold in Your Side Mirrors
Side mirrors are particularly vulnerable to hail damage. If a storm is approaching, fold your side mirrors in to reduce the risk of breakage. This small step can save you from costly repairs.
Tip #7: Use Towels or Hail Blankets on Windows and Windshields
If you don’t have a hail cover, use thick towels or blankets to protect your windshield and windows. This won’t prevent dents, but it can reduce the risk of cracked glass and shattered windows.
When Hail Damage is Unavoidable, We’re Here to Help
Despite your best efforts, some hail damage is unavoidable—but that’s where Dent Mechanic Group comes in. Our paintless dent repair (PDR) process restores your car without the need for costly paintwork, and we offer $0 out-of-pocket repairs for qualifying insurance claims.
Get a Free At-Home Estimate Today anywhere in the DFW area and let us help you get your car back in top shape!
