What to Do After Hail Damage in Southwest Louisiana

Storms in Southwest Louisiana can move fast and drop hail in narrow paths. If your vehicle was outside when one passed, here is a simple order of operations.

1. Check the vehicle in good light

Hail dents are small and round, and they show best in bright shade or overcast light, looking across the panel at a low angle instead of straight on. Check the roof, hood, trunk lid, and the tops of fenders. Windows, mirrors, and trim are worth a look too.

2. Take photos and notes

Photograph each panel from a few angles, wide shots and close-ups. Note the date and location of the storm. If neighbors' cars were hit, that can help show what happened, but your own documentation matters most.

3. Contact your insurer

Hail damage is usually handled under the comprehensive portion of an auto policy, but coverage and deductibles vary. Ask your insurer how to file, what your deductible is, and what your options are for choosing a repair provider.

4. Get a dent assessment

Paintless dent repair is the standard method for most hail damage when the paint is intact. An assessment tells you how many dents there are and whether PDR can repair them. See our hail damage repair page, or send photos through the quote form.

5. Do not wait too long

After a widespread storm, repair schedules fill up. Getting your documentation and estimate in early keeps your options open, and it also avoids mixing in later damage that is unrelated to the storm.

What PDR cannot always fix

Very dense or deep hail damage, cracked paint, and some heavily creased panels may need conventional repair. A good technician will tell you which panels are candidates and which are not.