Storms are hard on cars
Huntsville drivers know hail. The National Weather Service in Huntsville calls the May 2, 2003 hailstorm one of the costliest in Alabama history, with hail larger than baseballs in places and over 30,000 insurance claims. Winter storms are rarer but serious: on February 25, 2015, 5 to 12 inches of snow fell across most of north Alabama. This guide covers what to do after storm damage or a breakdown.
Step 1: Safety
- After a breakdown, get off the road if possible, turn on hazard lights and stay away from traffic.
- In snow or ice, avoid driving if you can. If you slide off the road, stay in the car with your seat belt on and call for help.
- After hail, check that windows and the windshield are intact before driving.
Step 2: Document
- Photograph damage from several angles, in good light. Hail dents show best at an angle.
- Note the date, time and location.
- Keep any hail you can photograph next to a coin for scale.
Step 3: Contact your insurer
Report the claim, get a claim number and ask about comprehensive coverage, rental cars and towing. After big hailstorms, insurers may set up drive-in claim centers; ask where to go.
Step 4: Choose a repair shop
You choose the shop. Ask:
- for a written estimate before work starts;
- that the shop call you before any extra work;
- whether parts will be new, used or rebuilt;
- what the warranty covers;
- whether paintless dent repair is an option for hail dents.
Step 5: Watch for storm chasers
After big hailstorms, temporary repair tents appear. Ask for a local address, references and a written warranty, and be cautious with anyone who wants you to sign over your insurance payment before work begins.
Step 6: After snow and ice
Rinse road treatments off the underbody once roads clear, check tire pressure and battery health, and have any new noises or warning lights checked.
Step 7: If your claim stalls
The Alabama Department of Insurance asks consumers to contact their insurance company or agent first. If that fails, its Consumer Services Division forwards a complaint to the company, which must respond to the department, then reviews whether the company followed the policy terms. Phone 334-241-4141.
Step 8: Picking up the car
Compare the invoice with the estimate, ask the shop to explain each charge, test drive and keep the warranty.
Records
Keep estimates, invoices, photos and insurance papers together.
Understanding the estimate
Ask the shop to show you damaged or worn parts and explain the repair. For hail repair, ask whether panels will be repaired or replaced and whether repainted panels will be blended to match. A second estimate is reasonable for a large claim.