Handling Auto Hail Damage Claims
Step 1 – Report the damage to your insurance carrier
Step 2 – Get written estimates for the repair work
Step 3 – Choose a service provider
Regardless of what part of the country you live in, chances are you will be affected by hail damage at some time in your life. Hail stones can range in weight and size and can cause everything from tiny dings in the body of your vehicle, to smashing the windows and windshield out. Even though experiencing hail damage is a very real possibility, most people are not sure how to make auto hail damage claims.
The first thing that must be done once you realize your vehicle has sustained hail damage is contact your insurance company in order for them to record your hail damage claim. If you have auto insurance, it will most likely cover cosmetic damage under your comprehensive coverage. Cosmetic damage is usually paint, glass, and body damage, but not bad enough that’s you can’t drive it. Even though, it definitely won’t be a pretty sight. When your insurance adjuster comes out to inspect the damage and file your hail claim, they will more than likely look it over in a garage for them to be able to see every aspect of your hail damage and give you a fair hail claim. If this inspection is done outside, the glare of the sun could make it so not all dents are visible. Make sure you take plenty of pictures and notes of the damage for your records and for your own inspection of the vehicle following the repair.
After filing your auto hail damage claims , the next thing that you need to do is find a reputable repair shop. Many times your insurance company will suggest one or two that they have worked with in the past, and many times they may ask you to get 2-3 estimates before making a decision. However, this differs from one insurance company to another. Typically they will allow you to choose a repair shop you trust. Local repair shops will work with you better on warranties than your run of the mill corporate repair shop. Auto hail damage repair can take anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks or longer depending on the severity of the damage and the scope of the storm. Depending on your insurance coverage, you may be entitled to a rental car for the duration of your hail damage repair.
Completing auto hail damage claims
Once your car is repaired, inspect it completely to ensure all damages have been addressed. Many times the interior headliner has to be removed to correctly repair the vehicle, so do not just assume you have to check the exterior. This is a good time to refer back to the pictures you took for the hail damage claim. Once you are satisfied with the repairs, the only thing left for you to do is pay your deductible if you have one to pay. Keep up with any and all paperwork on the repairs, including those concerning your warranties.
It’s extremely important to know when filing your hail claim, if you have comprehensive car insurance, your insurance rates typically will not go up like they may when you have to access your collision insurance. Auto hail damage claims are generally considered an act of nature.
Browse the learning center to keep researching or if you are ready, find a hail repair vendor near you.