How to protect your car from hail
If you're unable to park your car in your garage or under a carport, using a car cover, sometimes called a "hail blanket," can help protect your vehicle against hail. If you get caught in a storm while driving, parking in a public garage, or under a covered structure can help minimize the damage. Parking away from the wind direction to avoid gusts of wind driving hail into your vehicle may help if your car must be kept outside. If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto policy, your vehicle may be covered against damage from hail.
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Best methods to protect your car from hail
Parking your car in a garage or under a carport, also referred to as a portable garage, is the easiest way to prevent hail damage to your vehicle. But, if your car is parked outside, here are a few smart ways you can help protect your car from hail:
Use a hail blanket
Working as specialized car covers, hail blankets are thick, padded covers that help to safeguard your vehicle against hail damage. They're typically made of impact-resistant materials that can absorb the impact of hail and reduce the chances of dents or cracks.
Invest in a hail protector system
While hail protectors are generally more expensive than hail blankets, they provide a custom fit and use high-volume air to absorb hailstone impact, making it nearly impossible for hail to get through — this hail protector has been tested in 80 mph wind gusts.
Get comprehensive coverage
If your vehicle is damaged by hail, auto comprehensive coverage may help pay to repair, or even to replace your vehicle, minus your deductible. If hail cracks your windshield and you're a Progressive auto customer with comprehensive coverage, you won't pay a deductible if the crack is repairable and less than 6 inches long. Depending on your state, we also offer a $0 deductible option for glass-only replacement claims.
Stay informed
Pay attention to weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts about projected hailstorms in your area. With advanced notice, you can make arrangements to protect your car and other property.
Park away from the direction of the wind
If you're caught in a hailstorm without shelter, park your vehicle in a spot against the wind, so hail won't be driven into your car. Also, it's generally not a good idea to park under an overpass during a hailstorm. Other drivers will also be seeking shelter in low visibility conditions, so you can easily end up in an accident.
Perform regular maintenance
Waxing and maintaining your vehicle paint and finish may safeguard it against minor damage from smaller hailstones.
Pro tip:
Be extremely cautious before deciding to drive in a hailstorm. If your windshield is cracked, it can be unsafe and sometimes illegal, depending on your state, to operate a vehicle. Some auto insurers, including Progressive, work with mobile glass vendors so your windshield can be repaired quickly, without waiting for an available body shop. Get more information about how car insurance covers hail damage.
How to make a DIY hail cover for your car
You might save money by making a custom DIY hail cover:
- Choose a thick, durable, and waterproof fabric
- Select an insulating material that absorbs impact and provides cushioning
- Precisely measure your vehicle to determine the size of the hail cover
- Use rope or elastic to secure the cover and attach straps or tie-downs to your car's tires or other stable points
- Test the cover in a safe environment to ensure its safety and effectiveness
Which states are most prone to hail?
While hail can form at any time of year in most areas of the country, some parts of the U.S. experience far more hailstorms than others. The area where Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming meet is especially notorious for hailstorms, earning the nickname "hail alley."
The Great Plains region leads the nation in hailstorms. Find out about auto insurance pricing for the five states that experienced the most hail events in 2023:
Protect your car against hail damage
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