When hail damages your car, knowing what to do can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your vehicle is affected by hail.
- Assess the Damage: After a hail storm, inspect your car for damage. Look for dents, cracks, and broken glass. Note the extent of the damage to help you communicate with your insurance company and repair shop.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Call your insurance company to file a claim. Provide them with details of the damage and follow their instructions for further steps. They may ask you to get an estimate from a repair shop.
- Get an Estimate: Take your car for a reputable hail storm repair in Lakewood, CO. Find a shop that specializes in hail damage repairs. The shop will inspect your vehicle and provide you with an estimate for the repairs. This estimate may differ from the one provided by your insurance company, as specialized tools are used to identify all damage.
- File a Supplement Request: If the repair shop’s estimate is different from your insurance company’s, they may need to file a supplement request with your insurance company. This process ensures that all necessary repairs are covered.
- Wait for Approval: Once the supplement request is filed, wait for your insurance company to approve it. This approval is necessary before the repair shop can start working on your vehicle.
- Repair Process: The repair process typically involves paintless dent repair, which is the preferred method for hail damage repair by most insurance companies. This method involves massaging out the dents without altering the paint’s surface, preserving the value of your car.
- Duration of Repair: The duration of the repair process varies depending on the extent of the damage. It can take anywhere from two to five days for your vehicle to be repaired.
- Collect Your Vehicle: Once the repairs are complete, collect your vehicle from the repair shop. Ensure that all repairs have been done to your satisfaction before driving off.
- Follow-Up: After the repairs, follow up with your insurance company to ensure that all payments have been processed correctly. Keep documentation of all transactions and repairs for your records.
In conclusion, knowing what to do if hail damages your car can help you navigate the process smoothly. By following these steps and working with reputable professionals, you can get your vehicle repaired and back on the road in no time.