Hello in the forecast Here’s how to prepare your house and car

Monica StanlyFebruary 16, 2023

The State Farm says Texas ranks first in the nation for hail-related insurance claims, so here are four ways to prepare your home and car for possible damage.

DALLAS. When hail is forecast, it’s hard not to immediately think about the potential damage it could cause.

State Farm spokesman Chris Pilcic understands this – and probably better than most people. Because a) it’s his job and b) he has data to back up his fears.

“Texas actually ranks first in the country in hail casualties,” Chris Pilcic said.

So what can You do to get ready? Here are some tips from State Farm and AAA.

1. Know Exactly What Your Home and Car Insurance Covers and What Doesn’t

“Read your policy,” AAA spokesman Daniel Armbruster said. “If you have questions, discuss them with your insurance agent. Now is better than waiting for something to happen.”

2. Move garden furniture and grills to a covered space and close blinds.

“If the glass breaks, it will prevent the broken glass from flying around your home, which could cause damage to your home and reduce the risk of injury inside the home,” Pilcic said.

3. Don’t leave your car outside

Make sure your car is parked in a covered area whenever possible. Experts even say the fee to park your car in a public garage is worth it. If none of these options work, consider purchasing a seat cover for your car. Armbruster said covering the car with blankets can also help if you can secure the blankets so they don’t blow away.

4. Document what your house and car looks like – both inside and out – before the bad weather hits.

“We all have great phones with great cameras,” Pilcic said. “Use this to your advantage.”

Digital documentation is more important now than ever before.

“[In the wake of] COVID-19, many of the claims we process are handled virtually via video chat and using nothing more than your smartphone,” Pilcic said. “This is how hail claims or any insurance claims are currently handled.”