Hail season is part of living in Alberta, and hailstorms can ravage cars and homes. Alberta is no stranger to dangerous weather—even referred to as “Hail Alley.” Car owners in the region should take the appropriate precautionary steps to protect their vehicles. As an Insurance Broker, we have helped numerous clients who require coverage due to hail damage. Read on to learn how you can protect your car from hail damage in Alberta.
Monitor the Weather Forecast
This is one of the best preventive measures if you have a garage, as this will alert you about severe thunderstorms. When you know a storm is coming, you can take the proper steps to prepare and can keep your car in your garage until the storm passes.
Rent a Canopy or Carport
If you do not have a garage where you can park your car, consider renting a canopy or carport to guard against ice pellets. It is possible for hail the size of golf balls to slam into your car’s roof, sides, and windows, resulting in severe damages. Depending on the size of the ice pellets and the severity, your vehicle may be a complete write-off.
Take Cover
If you are on the road when a hailstorm hits and are miles from your garage, you need to act fast. If you are close to a mall or gas station that has partial coverage for your car, take cover. Park in this sheltered area until the storm subsides to protect your car from damage.
Plan Ahead
Use technology to your advantage and download apps that can indicate the location of nearby parking garages. This technology will be valuable in a pinch. Your car will maintain its condition in the long-term if you are able to quickly access the closest areas for shelter in the event of a hailstorm. Additionally, you can automate notifications on your phone or PC with weather notifications in the event of extreme conditions.
Protect Your Car
If you look outside and see storm clouds coming your way, you will only have a few minutes to act. If you do not have a garage, you can use thick blankets or comforters to cover your car and secure them with duct tape or rope. Again, proactively monitoring the weather can help reduce the chances of your car suffering damage from a hailstorm.
Purchase a Hail Cover
Buying a hail cover is a wise investment if you live in Alberta. As an Albertan, you will be more susceptible to the dangers of hail and find that purchasing a hail cover will not go to waste. Hail covers are specifically made to protect your car from hail damage, and you will not have to worry knowing that you have access to preventative measures at a moment’s notice.
Fold Your Side Mirrors
Hail can crack side-view mirrors easily and folding them in will help protect the reflective part. Make this a common habit in general, as an extra layer of security against hail damage in the future.
Prioritize Your Safety During a Hailstorm
Protecting your car is important but protecting yourself is more important. Always stay in your car during a hailstorm to prevent injury. If you can reach a safe area, park there and wait for the storm to subside.
Add Comprehensive Coverage
Another option is making sure you have the right coverage on your policy when purchasing insurance. Comprehensive coverage will ensure that your vehicle is covered in the event of a hail storm if all else fails.
Hail can cause significant dents and damage in a matter of minutes. Knowing how to protect your car from hail damage will prevent this from happening. Having a few tricks up your sleeve will come in handy, as will having the right car insurance policy.
Leibel Insurance will ensure you have the right coverage, and our Brokers are able to find you comprehensive car insurance coverage—including hail damage protection.
Contact Leibel Insurance today at 1-866-484-8880 to learn more about protecting your car from hail damage.