What Iowa Car Owners Should Do After Recent Hail Storms

Severe weather happens every spring in Iowa. But this month, it sure seems like we've seen more than our fair share of hail. Hail stones can cause major damage to your car and home, and you could be out thousands if you don't have the right coverage.

Is Hail Damage Covered Under Insurance?

The Des Moines Register reports that if you only carry liability insurance on your vehicle, you more than likely don't have coverage for hail damage. Most companies require you to carry comprehensive coverage that will cover things like broken glass, dented panels, and other types of hail damage. Check with your auto insurance provider for information on your policy.

How Big Does Hail Need to Be to Damage My Car?

According to Weather and Radar, pea size to moth ball size hail is generally harmless to most vehicles. Penny to nickel size hail can cause some paint damage. When you get to quarter size, and then up to ping pong and golf ball sized hail, you'll see deep dents and potential cracks in your windshield and windows.

This hail from a storm that hit near our home in Marion fortunately didn't do any damage to our vehicles, but any larger and we could have been in danger.

How Else Can I Protect My Vehicle from Hail?

If you're like my family, you simply don't have enough garage space for all our vehicles. But getting your car inside is the best way to protect it from hail. You might also check out hail blankets if your car does have to remain outside.

More severe weather is headed our way Friday. Keep an eye on the forecast and always plan ahead!