MONDAY, MARCH 29, 2021
Hailstorms and Vehicle Safety Risks
Driving in any type of inclement weather is an added safety risk. That’s particularly true when it comes to hail, which is not only a safety risk, but also a prevalent and unpreventable cause of vehicle damage.
It’s very hard to tell when a hailstorm might strike, or how large or prevalent the hail itself is going to be until it starts falling. That’s why anyone or anything that is outdoors at the time is vulnerable to the damage that hail might cause. Cars are no exception. While they’re durable, they aren’t immune, and some vehicles can sustain significant body damage when hail occurs.
Not only that, but any driver who is on the road when a hailstorm hits faces incalculable accident risks. While your auto insurance might be there to help you cover costs after an accident occurs, it’s still up to you to know the risks of hail, and to do all you can to protect yourself when a storm beckons.
Hail can strike quickly and cause major vehicle damage. If a hailstorm does strike, follow this precautionary advice:
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Do not get out of your vehicle.
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Pull over to the side of the road, if you can do so safely.
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Because windshields are made of reinforced glass, park your car on an angle so that the hail hits the front of your car. Side and rear windows are not made of reinforced glass.
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Lie with your back to the windows inside your car. Cover yourself with a blanket to protect yourself if hail breaks any of your car windows.
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If your car suffers damage to any of the windows, remove broken glass immediately to avoid injuries.
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Your comprehensive auto policy should pay for damages caused by severe weather and natural disasters.
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Get needed repairs done at a trusted body shop.
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Discuss the extent of the damage with your insurance broker and the body shop.
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Make sure you are fully satisfied with the repairs, before you leave the body shop. Look for remaining dents and obtain a written guarantee of their services.
Do not leave your home or workplace to cover your car with blankets or move it to a covered location, if a major hailstorm occurs. You can suffer injuries while trying to protect your car. Your own safety is priceless; your car’s safety is not.
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