Answers To Your Questions About Vehicle Hail Damage

A hail storm is never good news for your car, especially if you are parked outside when the storm occurs. Fortunately, you can get your car repaired so it is as good as new again. The following can answer some of your questions about hail damage repair.

Does insurance cover hail damage?

Hail damage is typically covered if you have full coverage policy that includes comprehensive coverage for body damages. Of course, you will need to pay any deductibles required by your policy, so there may still be some out-of-pocket costs for the repair. To verify coverage, contact your insurance company as soon as you are aware of the damage. If you only have basic coverage, sometimes called liability, then hail damage isn't usually covered.

Can I schedule a repair before I receive reimbursement?

Generally yes, although it's best to verify with your insurance company first. By law, you can use any repair shop that you like for the repair. The challenge of scheduling the repair before your reimbursement arrives is that some insurance companies prefer to issue damage payments to the shop directly. Check with the shop to see if they will bill the insurance company for the work if reimbursement hasn't already been sent. Failing this, call your insurance agent to determine the procedure for reimbursement if you choose to pay the shop out of pocket prior to the claim being completed.

Is hail damage only cosmetic?

Hail damage is usually nothing more than cosmetic damage, with the exception of any broken glass. There is one situation, though, that can affect the performance of your vehicle over time. If the hail removes the paint or results in the creasing of metal panels, rust and corrosion can attack your car. If left untreated, the rust will spread and compromise the integrity of the vehicle. Loose panels, holes, and rust that spreads to exposed mechanical components can ruin your car. So although much of the damage is cosmetic, you should never postpone repairs if the paint has been compromised.

Will the car need to be repainted?

Paintless dent repair methods can be used if there is no creasing and minimal paint damage. The techs will use suction devices and other techniques to pop out the hail dents. Touch-up paint will be used for any small chips caused by the hail. If there is creasing or extensive paint damages, the creases must be repaired first. Then the techs will typically repaint the vehicle since this is much easier than trying to touchup multiple chips.

For more help, contact a hail damage repair shop in your area like Summit Hail Repair.