Hail, Floods and Storms: How Weather Affects Your Car Insurance Costs in Alberta

OCT 23, 2026
  • Community and Advocacy
  • Driver Education

Hail, floods and severe storms can damage thousands of vehicles in a short time. This sudden demand puts pressure on repair shops, glass suppliers, rental vehicles, towing and replacement parts. The Automobile Insurance Rate Board (AIRB) points to catastrophic weather and repair costs as pressures on premiums. The simplest fix? Prevent damage when it’s safe to do so, like parking under cover before a hailstorm.

Why Does Weather Matter for My Car Insurance?

One hailstorm can cause damage to thousands of vehicles in the city, all on the same day.

Everyone suddenly needs:

  • A repair shop
  • A new windshield
  • A rental vehicle
  • A tow
  • Replacement parts

A lot of demand at once puts pressure on the whole system. Over time, this pressure can show up in what insurance costs. One example is the Calgary hailstorm on August 5, 2024 which caused $2.9 billion in insured damages.

Storms are unpredictable, but a little planning goes a long way.

How Can I Protect My Vehicle From Hail?

Easy preventative measures you can take include:

  • Park in a garage or under cover when you can.
  • Check the forecast so you can plan ahead.
  • Caught driving in a storm? Pull off the road and shelter somewhere covered, like a gas station or parkade.
  • Skip the trees. Falling branches can add to the damage.
  • No cover? Use blankets or mats on your vehicle if it’s safe to do so.

But remember, safety first! Your vehicle can be repaired. You can’t. Don’t go out into a storm to protect your car. Take cover when hail begins to fall.

Is Hail Damage Covered by My Car Insurance?

According to AIRB, hail damage is covered only if you have comprehensive insurance, which is an optional add-on. It’s a good time to check your policy before storm season and ask your insurer or broker what’s covered. This includes questions about floods or other storm damage.

What About Floods and Heavy Rain?

Heavy rain can cause floods quickly. It is advised to stay away from underpasses, ditches and low-lying areas. They can flood and overflow fast.

Summary

You can’t control the weather, but you can plan ahead. Check the forecast, park under cover when it’s safe and know what your policy covers.

Questions about your coverage? Visit airbfordrivers.ca.

#AlbertaDrivers #WeatherReady

Frequently Asked Questions

How does weather affect car insurance costs? Hail, floods and severe storms can damage many vehicles at once. This puts pressure on repair shops, glass suppliers, rentals, towing and parts. AIRB lists catastrophic weather and repair costs as pressures on premiums.

Is hail damage covered by car insurance in Alberta? According to AIRB, only if you have comprehensive insurance, which is an optional add-on.

How can I protect my car from hail? Park under cover, check forecasts, avoid parking under trees and cover your vehicle with blankets or mats if it’s safe to do so.

What should I do if I’m driving in a hailstorm? AIRB says to leave the road and shelter in a covered area, like a gas station or parkade.