What to do if caught driving in a hailstorm?

Driving In Colorado on a beautiful clear day can quickly be replaced with darkening skies and a looming hailstorm. The region dubbed ‘Hail Alley ‘, which encompasses Colorado is known for the unpredictability of its weather. Hailstorms are no strangers here, turning what should be a tranquil drive into a potential hazard. This is not just about avoiding dents and dings in your car; it’s about ensuring your safety, a top priority for experts like Colorado Hail Claims.

Unwelcome hailstorms

One moment, you’re enjoying the Colorado skies; the next, you’re faced with nature’s icy curveballs. Hail, created when updrafts in thunderstorms lift raindrops into the cold upper regions of the atmosphere, can be particularly dangerous for drivers.

How to be safe when driving through a hailstorm

When a hailstorm begins, visibility will decrease, and the road will become a minefield of icy hailstones—varying in size from peas to golf balls and in catastrophic storms up to grapefruit size. Here’s some tips on how to handle it:

Slow down:

Decreasing your speed and avoiding sudden brakes. Turn on your lights low beam to improve visibility for you and other drivers on the road.

Keep your distance:

Increase the distance between your vehicle and others. Keeping your distance could be a lifesaver, preventing a collision if you need to stop quickly.

Find cover:

A moving car receives more forceful hail hits. Drive into a sheltered area like a garage or gas station canopy, if possible. If the roadside is your only option, stay clear of traffic and angle your car to take hail on the windshield, the sturdiest part of your vehicle.

Stay put:

Wait until the hail stops. Additionally, you can use any available clothing or blankets to shield yourself from possible glass shattering caused by the hail.

After the hailstorm

Once the hailstorm subsides, your vehicle might have sustained damage from dents and dings or shattered windows. That’s your cue to assess the damage and contact your Colorado Hail Claims for help. Our expertise in hail damage repair is unparalleled, ensuring your car is restored to its pre-storm condition.

Are you in hail’s path?

Hail is common and expected over a large area. The three states, Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming, are referred to as “hail alley”, and see an average of seven to nine hail events per day. Knowing your area’s hail patterns is a good idea, and having “hail safety and readiness” resources is a great way to be prepared. Regularly following the weather with The National Weather Service for updates and warnings is also a key step.

Knowing what to do when caught in a hailstorm

Whether seeking immediate shelter, avoiding windows, or using your body to protect younger passengers, knowing what to do when hail strikes is your best defence. Remember, if caught outside, your top priority is to shield your head using whatever you have.

Drive with confidence, thanks to Colorado Hail Claims

Hailstorms don’t have to spell disaster. Armed with these safety strategies and the support of professional services from Colorado Hail Claims, you’re ready to handle any hailstorm that comes your way. Stay informed during hail season, watch the weather closely, prioritize your safety, and remember, if hail damages your car, we’re here to assist you and will love your car like it’s our own. Colorado Hail Claims prides itself on our quick, efficient service.  We cover your deductible, accept all insurance, provide rental car assistance and offer a limited lifetime warranty. We’ll get your car back on the road looking new at no out-of-pocket cost. For more info connect with our friendly team