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What to Expect from your Insurance Company after Hail Damage

The Storm Guys : Mar 18, 2024 2:00:00 PM

Hail Damage

Getting Covered: Hail Damage and Your Ride

So, your car's taken a beating from a hailstorm. The big question: do you tap into your insurance to fix it up? Let's break it down.

In 2021, folks weren't filing as many claims for car and homeowners insurance compared to the year before. But when it comes to hail damage, it's a tough call. Sure, those dings might not affect how your car runs, but they sure do stand out. Some folks decide to roll with it, while others go for the insurance claim, only to realize the repair bill isn't hitting that deductible.

So, should one proceed with repairing the car or retain a hail-damaged vehicle, especially if it's deemed totaled? Additionally, there's the looming question of potential rate hikes. Here are key insights into navigating auto insurance claims for hail damage:

Comprehensive insurance coverage typically covers hail damage, necessitating payment of the deductible.
Filing a claim for minor hail damage may not be worthwhile as repair costs often don't surpass the deductible.
Claims arising from natural events like hailstorms usually do not lead to premium increases.
Auto Insurance Coverage for Hail Damage
Comprehensive insurance coverage, also known as "other than collision," extends coverage to hail damage along with incidents like animal strikes, vandalism, and theft. However, the deductible applies.

Filing a Claim for Hail Damage

For those with comprehensive insurance, specific steps must be followed:

Document the damage.
Obtain repair estimates but refrain from initiating repairs if a claim is pending.
Assess whether repair costs significantly exceed the deductible.
File a comprehensive insurance claim.
An insurance adjuster evaluates the damage to determine repair coverage or total loss.

The Money Side of Hail Damage Claims

Impact on Premiums:

Typically, claims for natural events such as hail damage do not impact insurance premiums. However, a history of frequent claims can lead to higher perceived risk, potentially resulting in increased rates.

Claim Amounts and Regional Trends:

The average car insurance claim for hail damage was $5,000 in 2021, with variations based on actual damage and deductible amounts. In terms of regional trends, states like Texas, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Illinois, and Colorado saw significant hail damage claims in 2021.

FAQ:

You don't have to fix hail damage if you own your car outright, but if you're still paying it off, you'll likely need to get it sorted.
Don't worry – you can still claim for new hail damage even if you didn't fix the old stuff. But they'll take that into account.
And as for your car's title, it might get marked if the damage is severe enough and your state allows it.
So there you have it – navigating hail damage and insurance claims doesn't have to be a headache. Just remember to weigh your options and snap some pics before you decide what to do next.