Living in Florida has perks, from beautiful beaches to warm weather year-round. However, residents also face the challenge of severe weather, including hailstorms. These sudden and intense storms can wreak havoc on vehicles, causing significant damage to unprotected cars.
What Makes Them Dangerous
Hailstorms occur when strong updrafts in thunderstorms carry raindrops high into freezing layers of the atmosphere, where they form into hailstones. These frozen pellets can vary in size, ranging from small pea-sized hail to larger, more destructive stones the size of golf balls or even baseballs. When these hailstones plummet to the ground, they can strike vehicles with considerable force, denting metal panels and shattering glass, causing extensive damage to the exterior of cars.
Tips for Protecting Your Car
Seek Shelter Whenever Possible
The best way to protect your car from hail damage is to keep it covered or enclosed during a storm. If you're at home, consider parking your vehicle in a garage or carport. When out and about, look for covered parking structures or underground garages where you can safely shelter your car until the storm passes.
Invest in a Car Cover
If shelter is not readily available, investing in a quality car cover can provide an added layer of protection against hailstones. Choose a cover designed to withstand severe weather conditions, including hail, and ensure it fits snugly over your vehicle. While a car cover may not offer as much protection as a sheltered location, it can help minimize damage from smaller hailstones and debris.
Stay Informed and Plan Ahead
Keep an eye on weather forecasts and stay informed about the likelihood of hailstorms in your area. By staying proactive and planning ahead, you can take necessary precautions to protect your car before a storm hits. If severe weather is forecasted, consider moving your vehicle to a safer location or taking other preventive measures to minimize potential damage.
Hail Damage Repair And What to Do After a Storm
Assessing the damage to your car after a hailstorm is important. Look for dents, cracks, and broken glass caused by hailstones. Take photos of the damage from multiple angles for insurance claims. Contact your insurance provider promptly to report the damage and initiate the claims process.
Don't let hail damage ruin your car's appearance. Contact db Orlando Collision today for professional hail damage repair services and to restore your vehicle's beauty.