If a storm occurs while you leave your car parked in the street, you can end up with hail damage. Dents is a typical example of hail damage. Hail will also likely scrape against body panels, creating chips and scratches on your paint.
Debris thrown during a significant storm can shatter your windscreen, mirrors, and headlights.
You can find it challenging to absorb the losses of hail damage, highlighting the importance of insurance coverage.
Consider speaking to a
trusted insurance agent who can evaluate your exposure and recommend suitable coverage.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Liability Car Insurance?
Liability car insurance is an insurance package that provides financial protection to a driver who harms someone else or their property while operating the vehicle. Car liability coverage primarily protects injuries and damages to third parties and their property.
The coverage excludes the driver and the driver’s property, who enjoy protection from other parts of auto insurance.
Does Liability Insurance Cover Hail Damage?
Liability insurance does not cover hail damage. The liability protection can only apply if the resulting accident caused bodily injury to another party or property damage belonging to another person.
Fortunately, you can buy a common type of coverage to protect your vehicle from hail damage.
Comprehensive auto coverage is the proper insurance to protect your vehicle from hail damage.
The comprehensive coverage caters to repairs if the vehicle sustains damages in severe weather, including hail. It also covers other calamities, including floods, fire, theft, vandalism, and falling objects like trees.
Comprehensive auto coverage is optional coverage, which means you have to request it. If you don’t buy comprehensive car insurance and your car sustains hail damage, you may have to pay for it out-of-pocket.
How to File an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage
An insurance claim is a formal request you make to an insurer after your vehicle has sustained hail damage.
You can file a claim in three simple steps:
Step 1: Call the Police
Inform the local police department, even if no one has sustained an injury. You may later need the police report to file or substantiate a claim; completing it as soon as possible helps.
Step 2: Document the Incident
Get prepared to file an insurance claim by gathering information about the incident. While at the scene, document the scene by:
- Writing a summary of the accident
- Taking photos of the damaged vehicle
- Getting a copy of the police report
- Get contact details of any witnesses
Step 3: Get in Touch With Your Insurer
Inform your insurer about the hail damage and provide them with relevant documentation to process your claim.
Speak to an Experienced Auto Insurance Provider
The repair expenses for restoring your car after hail damage can disrupt your finances. Even so, comprehensive auto coverage can give you peace of mind by taking care of the repair bill.
Consider working with a professional from Panorama Insurance Agency, who works with multiple insurers to give you a package that meets your needs.
Contact us online or at 818-306-4890 to get a free quote.