Surviving Hailstorms with Hail: Protecting Your Ride and Covering Damages
Car Hail Protection and Damage Responsibility: Who Guards Against Hail Damage to Your Vehicle and Who Covers the Cost of Repairs?
Weather can take a sharp turn during summer, from sunny skies to heavy rain and hail. Here's a practical guide on how to keep your car hail-free, what to do when you're stuck driving, and who foots the bill for the damage.
Prepare for Hail
Stay updated on weather forecasts and use severe weather warning apps such as DWD WarnWetter, NINA, or KatWarn. When hail is predicted, secure a safe haven for your car. If you're lucky to have a garage or carport, great! For street parkers, consider moving your vehicle to a public parking garage ahead of the storm, provided there's time. The cost might seem steep, but it's a small price to pay compared to the potential damage and stress.
Hail Protection Accessories
If you can't park your car safely, consider using hail protection accessories like mats that sell for around 50 to 300 euros. The ADAC advises getting securely attached mats. In a pinch, blankets or cardboard could be used, but make sure they're properly and securely attached to avoid causing more damage. Don't risk your safety trying to protect your car!
Driving in Hail
If you find yourself on the road during a hailstorm, keep focused, both hands on the steering wheel, and adjust your speed to the conditions. Turn on your lights, avoid distractions, and pull over with caution if necessary, considering the traffic behind you and turning on your hazard lights.
Insurance Coverage
Partial coverage insurance usually covers hail damage. Comprehensive insurance covers it as well. Liability insurance does not – you'll have to fund the repairs yourself.
Post-Hailstorm Actions
Prevent further damage by taking reasonable safety measures, such as placing a cover over a damaged windshield to keep the interior dry. Document the damage with photos, date, time, and location details. Notify your insurance company promptly so they can guide you on the next steps. Avoid repairing the damage before consulting with your insurer.
Cost of Repairs
Repair costs vary depending on the severity of the damage and the affected components. Generally, more and bigger dents lead to higher repair bills. Whether it's wise to repair or not depends on the case.
Responsibility for hail damage depends on the type of insurance coverage you have. Comprehensive coverage protects you, while liability and partial coverage leave you to cover the costs yourself. Be wise – consider comprehensive insurance if you live in hail-prone areas.
[1] ntv.de [2] awi/dpa [3] adac.de [4] insurance.com [5] cbsnews.com
- In the event of a hailstorm, it is essential to be aware of the different types of insurance policies that cover hail damage, such as employment policies, community policies, sports policies, or any other policy that includes comprehensive coverage.
- For instance, if you have comprehensive insurance, your policy would cover hail damage, while liability and partial coverage might not protect you from the costs of repairing your vehicle. It's wise to consider comprehensive insurance if you live in hail-prone areas.
