Hailstorms can damage your car in minutes, leaving dents and cracked glass. In Australia’s wild weather, protecting your vehicle is a must. In May 2023, a hailstorm in Newcastle led to 7,500 insurance claims within 72 hours. Around 6,000 of those claims involved motor vehicle damage. The cost of these claims was $238 million. It’s a significant problem in the region. But knowing some practical tips to shield your car from hail, deal with insurers, and handle damage can save you stress and money.
Understanding Hail Damage and Its Impact
So, what is hail damage in a car? Hailstorms can turn your vehicle into a pincushion in minutes. Hailstones, ranging from pea-sized ones to those as big as golf balls, can dent hoods, roofs, and trunks, crack windscreens, and chip paint. Even minor hail damage can lead to rust if ignored, while severe cases may leave your car unsafe to drive.
Repair costs vary—minor dents might set you back a few hundred dollars, but extensive damage can total thousands. So, does hail damage write off a car? It could, yes. A written-off car could leave you without wheels. If you understand the damage hail can do to your car, you can act fast to protect your vehicle and avoid hefty repairs.
Preventive Measures to Protect Your Car from Hail Damage
Hailstorms can strike with little warning, turning your car into a dented mess in minutes. Fortunately, a few innovative strategies can shield your vehicle from costly damage. Here’s how to stay one step ahead of the storm.
Park Under Shelter
The best defence against hail is parking your car under solid cover. A garage or carport is ideal, keeping your vehicle safe from falling ice. No garage? Look for the undercover car park at shopping centres or petrol stations when weather forecasts indicate a storm. Even temporary structures, like sturdy awnings, can make a difference. The key is to get your car under something substantial before the hail hits—don’t wait until the sky starts pelting hailstones.
Use Protective Covers
If covered parking isn’t an option, a hail-resistant car cover can be a lifesaver. These aren’t your average tarps; they’re thick, padded blankets designed to absorb the impact of hailstones. Some even have multiple layers for extra protection. Keep one in your boot for emergencies, especially in a hail-prone area. A few tightly secured heavy blankets or cardboard boxes might work in a pinch for more minor hail. Just make sure whatever you use is fastened down to withstand strong winds.
Stay Informed About Weather Conditions
Knowledge is power when it comes to hail. Check weather apps or local weather forecasts regularly, especially during stormy seasons. Apps like the Bureau of Meteorology’s BOM Weather or Weatherzone offer real-time alerts for severe weather events, including hail. Sign up for push notifications so you’re not caught off guard. If a storm is brewing, move your car to safety immediately.
Pro tip: Follow local weather groups on social media for community updates. They often share hyper-local warnings that broader forecasts might miss.
Avoid Parking Under Trees or Power Lines
It’s tempting to park under a tree for shade, but during a hailstorm, it’s a risky move. Strong winds can snap branches, adding falling debris to the hail’s damage. Power lines are even worse—storms can bring them down, posing a danger to your car and anyone nearby. Instead, choose open spaces away from trees, poles, or overhead wires. Pull over to a clear spot and wait for the storm to pass safely if you’re on the road.
Insurance Coverage for Hail Damage
Hail can wreak havoc on your car, but insurance might have you covered. Here’s what you need to know.
Is Hail Damage Covered by Car Insurance?
Australia’s most comprehensive car insurance policies include hail damage, repairs for dents, cracked glass, or chipped paint. However, cover varies, so dig into your policy details. Some plans have exclusions or require an excess payment. Contact your insurer quickly after a storm to confirm cover and kickstart the claims process with photos and details.
How Much Hail Damage to Write-Off a Car?
A car is written off when repair costs outweigh its value, often 60-70% of the market price. Severe hail damage, like widespread dents or shattered windows, can push costs over this threshold. Insurers assess hailstorm damage based on your car’s age and condition. A professional evaluation decides whether repairs are worth it or it’s a total loss.
Steps to Take If Your Car Suffers Hail Damage
Hail can leave your car battered, but quick action can limit the headache. To handle the aftermath well, just follow the steps below:
- Inspect and Document: Check your car for dents, cracked glass, or chipped paint. Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles to capture all the damage.
- Cover Vulnerable Areas: If the windscreen or windows are cracked, use tape or plastic to prevent water damage until repairs are made.
- Contact Your Insurer: Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage, share photos, and ask about the claims process.
- Get a Professional Assessment: Book an appointment with a trusted repair shop for a detailed evaluation. Avoid driving if the damage affects safety.
- Keep Records: Save all receipts, repair quotes, and communication with your insurer for a smooth claims experience.
Acting quickly preserves your car’s condition and speeds up the repair process. Don’t let hail damage derail you—tackle it with these practical steps.
Additional Tips to Minimise Hail Damage Risks
Hailstorms can catch you off guard, but extra precautions can keep your car in top shape. These practical tips go beyond the basics to reduce the risk of costly damage.
- Maintain Your Car’s Exterior
A well-maintained car is better equipped to withstand hail. Regularly wax your vehicle to create a protective layer that can reduce paint chipping. Fix minor dents or scratches promptly—weak spots are more vulnerable to hail’s impact. A strong, intact surface can make a surprising difference when hail starts falling.
- Plan Your Travel Routes
If you’re hitting the road during stormy seasons, plan routes with access to covered areas like tunnels or multi-storey carparks. Avoid open highways where you’re exposed with nowhere to pull over. Check weather updates before long trips and delay travel if severe storms are forecast. A little foresight can save your car from damage.
- Use Temporary Shelters Creatively
No permanent shelter? Get creative. If you’re home, park your car undercover with a sturdy patio or assemble a portable canopy for quick cover. At work or when you’re out, scout nearby gas stations or drive-throughs with overhangs. These makeshift solutions can shield your car when a storm rolls in unexpectedly.
- Stay Proactive During Storm Season
During hail-prone months, make protection a habit. Keep a hail cover or thick blankets in your boot for emergencies. Bookmark reliable weather apps and set alerts for your area. Park strategically—avoid spots prone to pooling water or debris. Small, consistent habits can prevent big repair bills.
Conclusion
Don’t let hail catch you off guard. With smart precautions like parking under a covered car park, using a hail cover, and staying weather-savvy, you can protect your car from costly damage. Act fast if hail strikes, and lean on insurance for support. Stay proactive, and your vehicle will weather any storm with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions about hail damage? We’ve got answers to help you protect your car and navigate repairs.
How Can I Protect My Car From Hail if I Don’t Have a Garage?
No garage? No problem. When storms are forecast, park under strong public shelters like shopping centre carparks or fuel station awnings to avoid hail damage. Invest in a hail car cover—thick, padded ones work best. Secure heavy blankets or cardboard over your car. Always check weather apps to shield your vehicle before hail hits.
What Is Hail Damage in a Car?
Hail damage refers to harm caused by hailstones hitting your vehicle. It often includes dents on the hood, roof, or trunk, cracked windscreens, or chipped paint. Severe cases can shatter glass or damage mechanical parts. Even minor dents can lead to rust if untreated, so inspect your car after a storm and address issues promptly to avoid bigger repair bills.
Is Hail Damage Covered by Car Insurance in Australia?
Australia’s most comprehensive car insurance policies cover hail damage, including repairs or replacement costs. However, cover depends on your policy’s terms, so check with your insurer. Promptly report damage and provide photos to start the claim process. Excess fees may apply, and policies differ, so review yours to understand what’s included.
How Much Hail Damage Does It Take To Write Off a Car?
Hail-damaged cars are written off when repair costs exceed their market value or a percentage set by the insurer (often 60-70%). Extensive car hail damage, like severe dents across multiple panels or shattered glass, can tip the scales. Insurers assess damage on a case-by-case basis, considering the car’s age and condition. A professional evaluation determines if repairs are uneconomical.
