Car Insurance Guide: Shielding Your Car from Hailstorm Damage

Hailstorms, though rare in Southeast Asia, can cause significant damage. A recent hailstorm in Shah Alam, Selangor, highlighted the need for proper car insurance coverage.

This was not a one-off incident; there have been several hailstorms reported since 2020, including a hailstorm in Perak in March 2021, another in Kuala Lumpur in January 2022, and a few separate incidents in 2024.

Understanding the risks associated with hail damage and how to protect your vehicle is crucial. Our comprehensive car insurance with special perils cover and windscreen protection ensures that you are covered in the event of such natural disasters.

What are hailstorms?

A hailstorm is a severe weather event where balls of ice, known as hailstones, fall from the sky. These form within cumulonimbus clouds when updraught carry raindrops into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere. Hailstorms are rare in Southeast Asia due to the region’s tropical climate, which typically has higher freezing levels and warmer temperatures.

However, recent changes in weather patterns have increased the likelihood of such events. Understanding how hail forms can help us better prepare.

How to Protect Yourself During a Hailstorm

Before the Hailstorm

• Stay informed: Keep an eye on weather alerts from reliable sources like the Malaysian Meteorological Department and or simply search ‘Weather Malaysia Now’ on the browser.
• Shelter vehicles: Move vehicles into a garage or cover them with a car cover or blankets to prevent hail damage.
• Secure outdoor items: Bring in outdoor furniture, potted plants, and other loose items to prevent them from causing further damage.
• Prepare for power outages: Have a backup generator or alternative power source available.

During the Hailstorm

• Seek shelter: Stay indoors and away from windows, glass doors, and skylights. If you are outside, find a sturdy building to take cover in. Avoid taking cover in a stationary car if possible.
• If driving: Safely pull off the road, preferably under a bridge or overpass. Stay in the car, face away from windows, and cover yourself with a blanket or coat to protect yourself from shattered glass.

After the Hailstorm

• Check for injuries: Ensure you and everyone with you are safe and administer first aid if needed.
• Inspect property: Check your vehicles for hail damage. Take photos for insurance claims.
• Avoid hazards: Be cautious of broken glass, downed power lines, and other hazards.

Is Car Hail Damage Fixable?

Yes, car hail damage is fixable. The extent and cost of repairs depend on the severity of the damage. Minor dents and dings can often be fixed using paintless dent repair (PDR), a technique that removes dents without affecting the paintwork.

1. For more severe damage, traditional bodywork may be required, which can be more costly and time-consuming.
2. Comprehensive car insurance with special perils and windscreen cover can help these repair costs, ensuring your vehicle is restored to its original condition.

Car Insurance Add-Ons in Hail Damage Protection

1. Comprehensive Car Insurance Plan
   Comprehensive car insurance covers a wide range of damages, including those caused by hailstorms when you add in the other optional benefits. It provides not only peace of mind but also financial protection, ensuring that you are not left with hefty repair bills after a storm.
2. Special Perils Coverage
   Special perils for car insurance include protection against natural disasters like hail, floods, and landslides. This additional coverage ensures that you are fully protected against unexpected events. Imagine the peace of mind knowing your vehicle is protected from unexpected hail damage. Special perils coverage can save you from costly repairs.
3. Windscreen, Windows, and Sunroof Protection
   Windscreen protection covers the cost of repairing or replacing damaged windscreens without affecting your No Claims Discount (NCD). This is crucial for maintaining visibility and safety. In the event of a hailstorm in Malaysia, windscreen protection can save you from unexpected repair costs and ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive.
4. Compensation for Assessed Repair Time (CART)
   This benefit provides daily compensation for the assessed repair time, ensuring you are covered without affecting your No Claim Discount (NCD) or incurring an excess. While it does not  cover delays beyond the assessed period or certain exclusions like glass breakage and total loss, CART offers significant financial relief during most repair scenarios, making it a smart addition to your auto insurance for comprehensive coverage.

What should you do when a hailstorm happens?

Being prepared for hailstorms is essential for protecting yourself and your vehicle. Review your car insurance policy today to ensure you have comprehensive coverage with special perils for car insurance and windscreen protection at your next car insurance renewal.

Contact your insurance provider to discuss adding these vital coverages and stay protected against unexpected weather events.

Where can you receive Malaysia weather updates?

To stay informed and prepared for hailstorms and other weather events, we recommend the following resources:

Visit the Malaysian Meteorological Department website: Get the latest weather updates and alerts directly from the official source.

Do a quick Google search: For real-time weather information, simply search for your location (e.g., "Shah Alam weather now") to get instant updates.

Install a weather app: Apps like MyCuaca or AccuWeather can provide detailed forecasts, alerts, and real-time updates right on your mobile phone.

Follow local news channels and social media: Stay updated with weather news and alerts by following local news channels and their social media accounts.

By utilising these resources and making sure you have the right car insurance coverage, you can stay ahead of severe weather and ensure you and your vehicle are always protected!

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