The Fort Collins Hail Season

The 10 most hail prone states in the U.S. are packed into a stretch of the Midwest from Texas all the way to Michigan. For many drivers living in this ‘hail belt’ icy storms are a very real threat. Every year hail causes over $1 billion in damage to crops and property. Here at Dent and Ding Surgeon we believe everyone deserves the full value of their car; and because of the immense risk hail poses to your resale value, we’ve decided to help you protect your car from the Fort Collins hail season.

Buy or Rent Covered Parking

In recent years it has become decreasingly common for homes, apartments, and condos to include a garage. Some don’t even offer covered parking anymore. This is due to urban expansion, and the limited space cities have to operate in. Fortunately, there are several alternatives. Many residencies offer covered parking or private garages as an extension of your rent or as a separate fee. If you own a home, but it didn’t come with a garage, consider investing in a carport. There are countless affordable options online for $500 or less.

Find Shelter

Your next best option in the event of a hail storm is to look for shelter. It helps to make mental notes of areas with trees, tall buildings, and covered parking. Even if your car is only partially protected, you could potentially save thousands in repair costs.

Pack Some Covers

Sleeping bags and blankets don’t just sit in your trunk for camping trips. You should carry them throughout the Fort Collins hail season. Old linens can be used as cushioning in the event of a storm, and they can protect your windows from shattering. If you have the spare change, you might consider picking up a portable cover like the ones sold by Hail Protector.

Follow the Weather

You don’t need to become a storm chaser in order to stay ahead of the Fort Collins hail season. In fact, one of the easiest safety measures you can take is to check the forecast daily. While it may not be 100% accurate, a general idea of what to expect can go a long way. If you’re feeling extra cautious, download a weather app for updates on the go!

Get Comprehensive/Rental Coverage

If you live along the hail belt, and you don’t have comprehensive insurance then you may as well kiss your resale potential goodbye. Comprehensive coverage is the only type of insurance that will repair or replace a vehicle that is damaged by anything other than a collision. This includes theft, vandalism, and of course hail.