In 2018, there were more than 4,600 major hail storms throughout the United States that resulted in more than $800 million in damages. Much of this cost was sustained by automobiles that were struck and dented by hailstones. Because hail can cause considerable destruction, you may be curious about whether your auto insurance policy covers this type of hazard. The information below explains how to ensure that you have coverage and why you need it.

An Introduction to Auto Insurance & Hail Damage

Hail Damage Requires Comprehensive Coverage

Like most states, Alabama requires that all drivers obtain a minimum amount of insurance before they use public roads. Drivers must buy $25,000 per person of bodily injury liability coverage with a per-accident maximum of $50,000. $25,000 of property damage liability insurance is also required. However, none of this pays for damage to your vehicle. To guard against hail, you must buy comprehensive coverage. This pays for non-collision losses due to hail, fire, flooding, vandalism, and theft. Without comprehensive auto insurance coverage, you'll be stuck paying for hail damage repair on your own.

Why You Need Coverage Against Hail

Hail occurs when rain droplets are carried upward on warm currents of rising air until they reach atmospheric heights where the temperature is below freezing. Droplets collect in irregular balls of ice until they become heavy enough to fall earthward. The size of the pellets affects their velocity, and marble-sized pellets travel at about 20 mph, while baseball-sized hail can reach 100 mph. Smaller hailstones can chip paint and leave dents in your hood and roof, while larger stones can smash glass, cause severe body damage, and even leave the car inoperable. Often, hailstorms can result in the vehicle needing to be totaled. 

To have a friendly, knowledgeable agent help you design an auto insurance policy that covers hail damage, contact Russell Insurance Agency in Robertsdale, AL. They have served Baldwin County for more than 20 years, and they specialize in auto, ATV, mobile home, business, and homeowners insurance. Visit their website to learn about their client relationships or call (251) 947-3607 to request a free quote today.