Hailstorms are common in Alberta, and their impact on vehicles can range from minor dings to significant damage. Hail storms can be a car owner's worst nightmare leaving you with a hefty repair bill. But what if you could minimize the hassle and maximize your insurance claim?

Whether you've experienced hail damage or live in a hail-prone area, this guide is for you. Let's dive in and demystify the process of dealing with hail damage on your car.

Immediate Steps After a Hailstorm

1. Assess the Damage

Once it's safe to do so, inspect your car for damage. Look for dents, broken glass, or any other signs of damage. Remember, some damage may not be visible immediately.

Next, move your car to a sheltered location if possible. This can prevent further damage from subsequent storms or falling debris.

Here are some immediate steps to take:

• Ensure your safety and wait for the storm to pass.
• Inspect your car for visible damage.
• Move your car to a sheltered location.
• Document the damage with photos and notes.
• Contact your insurance company to report the damage.

Taking these steps can help protect your car from further damage and set the stage for a successful insurance claim.

In some cases, hail damage may not be immediately visible, especially if the dents are small or if
your vehicle has a dark paint colour. If you’re unsure whether your car has sustained damage,
consider using our investigate option to get a professional inspection. This service will help you
determine if any hidden issues need to be addressed, ensuring you don’t miss any
potential claims.

Link – (offer a review – not an appraisal?)

2. Documenting the Damage for Your Insurance Claim

Once you've assessed the damage, it's time to document it. This is a vital step in the insurance claim process. Take clear, high-resolution photos of all damaged areas. Make sure to capture different angles and lighting conditions.

Also, jot down notes about the damage. Include details like the date and time of the hail storm.

Here's a quick checklist to guide you:

• Date and time of the hail storm
• Detailed description of the damage
• Location of the damage on the car
• High-resolution photos of the damage

This documentation will be crucial when filing your hail-damaged car insurance claim.

3. Get a Professional Assessment

If you're unsure whether the recent hailstorm impacted your car, it's important to get it checked. Many times, hail damage can be difficult to spot, and we often see cars with unreported damage, meaning owners may have missed out on valuable insurance coverage. Bring your vehicle to us for a professional opinion, and we'll help ensure you're fully aware of any damage so you don't miss out on potential claims.

Understanding Your Car's Worth Pre and Post-Damage is important as hail damage can significantly impact your car's value. You might wonder, "What's my car worth now?" To answer this, consider factors like the extent of the damage and your car's age.

At Wheaton Honda West, we offer professional appraisals that provide an accurate assessment of your car's value based on current market conditions. This service ensures you have a reliable valuation for your vehicle, which is particularly useful if you believe your insurance company's valuation is too low. Our appraisal gives you a credible figure to present, helping safeguard your interests.

Book An Appraisal with Wheaton Honda West (link)

4. Consider Repair Options

Discuss repair options with your chosen body shop. In some cases, paintless dent repair may be
an option for minor damage, which can be less expensive and time-consuming.

If the cost of cosmetic damage from hail exceeds or is close to exceeding your vehicle's value, the insurance company will declare it a total loss and issue a cheque for its pre-damage worth. However, in most cases, the damage won't surpass the vehicle's value, leaving you to decide whether to take the hail claim payout or repair it through insurance. The best choice depends on your vehicle and plans for it. Understanding the pros and cons of each option can help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Dealing with hail damage can be a stressful experience, but being prepared and informed can make the process much smoother. By following these steps, you can minimize hassle and maximize your insurance claim, ensuring your vehicle is restored to its former glory with as little inconvenience as possible.

For more information on assessing your car’s value and negotiating with insurance companies,
visit What Should My Car Be Worth? (link) and stay informed about your rights and options. If you’re unsure about the presence of hail damage, don’t forget to check out our APPRAISAL (link) option for a comprehensive inspection.