It’s that time of year again. With storm predictions in the news every week, you’re probably worried about the damage your car can receive from hail, strong winds, and flying debris. And I don’t blame you. Dealing with the aftermath can be overwhelming – dents, broken windows, and other damage can leave you stressed and unsure of what to do next.
But vehicle hail damage repair doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here’s a list of common mistakes to avoid, helping you save time, money, – and frustration. Ready to get started?
1. Ignoring Hail Damage
One of the biggest mistakes vehicle owners make is negating the need to fix hail damage. While it may seem that the dents are purely cosmetic, those small and unnoticeable dents can lead to more significant issues over time. In fact, unaddressed damage can result in chipped paint and rust, reducing the resale value of your car.
2. Waiting to File an Insurance Claim Until After Hail Season
While it may make sense to wait until hail season is over, procrastinating on filing an insurance claim is probably the worst thing you can do. There are several reasons why you should avoid doing this.
First, you cannot file one claim for multiple incidents of hail damage. Second, many insurance policies have time limits for reporting damage and missing these deadlines can result in denied claims. Lastly, if you are involved in an accident while waiting, the hail damage will be considered ‘pre-existing damage’ and will not be covered by your insurance. Needless to say, you need to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after you notice any damage. Delaying the process can only complicate the issue.
3. Overlooking Comprehensive Insurance
Some vehicle owners opt for the bare minimum auto insurance, choosing liability insurance over comprehensive coverage. It may be a cheaper decision, but it also means you don’t have hail damage coverage.
If you reside in a state that encounters a lot of storms, overlooking comprehensive insurance coverage could be a big mistake since this type of insurance covers non-collision-related damage, including hailstorms. Without it, your vehicle is not protected against natural disasters. Review your insurance policy and consider adding comprehensive coverage if it is not already included.
4. Not Filing an Insurance Claim
Premiums may be higher in states where hailstorms occur frequently. For this reason, many automobile owners think that filing a hail damage claim will cause their monthly premiums to increase. However, this is incorrect. That’s because hail damage is regarded as a “no-fault” claim, so the expense of repairs is most likely covered within the terms of your policy. Furthermore, hail damage comes under comprehensive insurance coverage, i.e. it is not collision-related. So, if you have this policy, you’re good to go.
5. Not Documenting the Damage Properly
Proper documentation is vital when filing an insurance claim. Failing to do so can result in reduced claim payouts. That’s why it’s crucial to take clear, high-resolution photos of all affected areas. And that, too, from multiple angles. Make sure to take close-ups and wide shots to capture the full scope of the damage. This detailed documentation will support your claim and help avoid disputes with the insurance company.
6. Attempting DIY Hail Damage Repair
It could be tempting to fix the hail damage on your own. However, dent repair is not as easy as it appears. It requires specialized tools and years of training to learn how to repair hail-damaged cars with finesse. Without the right equipment and knowledge, you could do more harm than good, potentially worsening the damage or affecting the vehicle’s value. Therefore, it’s best to leave hail damage repair to the experts who have the experience and tools necessary for proper restoration.
7. Thinking All Repair Shops are the Same
Most qualified auto body technicians use paintless dent repair (PDR) to repair hail damage. It requires specific skills, experience, and equipment. Unfortunately, not all repair shops have these qualifications. If you decide to go to one that lacks expertise in repairing hail damage, they may not be able to restore your vehicle fully. Leaving imperfections on the body could lead to further issues down the road and reduce the resale value of the automobile. Your choice will play an important role in the long-term condition of your car.
So how can you find the right one?
For starters, read online reviews and ask for recommendations from trusted local sources before entrusting your car to anyone. For instance, if you’re searching for automotive hail damage repair in Texas, look for a reputable repair shop with certified technicians to ensure your vehicle receives the superior care it needs to maintain its integrity and value.
8. Considering Cheaper Options
It’s great to be penny-wise and look for a bargain, but when it comes to auto repair, don’t settle for the lowest quote. Cheaper is not always better, as low-cost repairs often come at the expense of quality. Subpar materials and unskilled labor can lead to inadequate fixes, which might cost more in the long run due to further damage or recurring issues. Investing in professional hail auto damage repair ensures your vehicle is properly restored and retains its value.
9. Overlooking Preventive Measures
You’ve probably heard that prevention is better than cure. Well, that’s also true for your car. So, pay close attention to weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to protect your vehicle from further damage. For instance, whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage or under a covered structure if a hail storm has been predicted. If covered parking is unavailable, consider using a hail cover or blanket to protect your vehicle. Taking these simple proactive measures can save you from the hassle and expense of repairs. (Trust me, I know!)
Over to You
Dealing with auto hail damage can be daunting, but avoiding the common mistakes mentioned above can make the repair process smoother and more efficient. By addressing damage promptly, documenting thoroughly, understanding your insurance policy, and choosing the right repair shop, you can reduce the financial and emotional impact of hailstorms.
But don’t stop at that. Additionally, taking preventive measures and proactively protecting your vehicle can prevent it from getting damaged further. After all, being informed can help you navigate the challenges of hail damage repair with confidence.
