Storms don’t just knock out power or flood roadways; they also leave behind cracked windshields, broken glass, and a long line of insurance claims that can slow down fleet operations. Getting repairs done quickly is only part of the challenge for agencies and organizations that manage vehicles.

The other half involves navigating the claims process, coordinating with insurance providers, and ensuring the right information, especially VINs and vehicle features, is in place before the storm hits.

That part of disaster prep doesn’t always get as much attention, but it should. Kim Sims of Safelite explained how fleets that prepare on the insurance side can make a noticeable difference in how fast repairs happen, particularly after hail or high winds overwhelm local capacity.

From filing glass claims to scheduling repairs and handling modern sensor recalibrations, the logistics behind the scenes can be just as critical as moving vehicles out of flood zones.

When evacuation orders come down, your traffic management strategy shouldn’t start with figuring out who’s going where. It should begin with executing a plan you built when the skies were clear.

While fueling vehicles, relocating assets, and checking communications equipment often take priority, insurance readiness rarely gets the same level of planning. However, when vehicles sustain hail or wind damage, particularly their windshields, the repair timeline often hinges on how quickly and accurately a claim can be filed.

One of the most critical pieces of information in this process is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

“The VIN tells us everything,” Sims said. “What kind of glass, what kind of accessories, whether the vehicle needs recalibration, it all starts there.”

When storms hit a region hard and local capacity is exceeded, Safelite deploys mobile technicians called “road warriors” to increase service availability.

“If a storm overwhelms local stores, we send in technicians from other areas until we catch up,” Sims said.

Quick action after a storm can mean the difference between a repair and a full replacement. Chips in windshields, if left untreated, often worsen due to temperature swings or added stress.

“It doesn’t get better with age,” Sims said. “A simple repair today avoids a much more expensive replacement later.”

Fleet managers should submit claims as soon as possible and begin triaging vehicle damage so glass orders can be placed promptly.

For newer vehicles equipped with ADAS features like lane assist or blind spot monitoring, windshield replacement isn’t as simple as swapping out glass. Recalibration of sensors is mandatory, and there are two types:

• Dynamic recalibration requires driving the vehicle under specific conditions so the systems can reset.
• Static recalibration happens while the vehicle is stationary, using specialized equipment to measure and align sensor fields.

“The recalibration method depends on the make and model,” Sims explained.

Sims emphasized that Safelite begins prepping well before a storm hits, usually four days out from the projected landfall. The goal is to safeguard assets, ensure fuel availability, and prepare the supply chain.

Fleets should take similar precautions. Key recommendations include:

• Topping off fuel in all units.
• Parking under cover or in open lots, clear of trees or overhead hazards.
• Avoiding low-lying flood-prone areas.
• Identifying which vehicles are most critical for post-storm operations.

Simple actions can significantly reduce post-storm downtime, such as avoiding parking near trees that could damage vehicles during a storm.

Sims pointed out that Safelite proactively contacts customers during major events to reschedule appointments. That preemptive coordination reflects a larger point: Operational continuity depends on clear communication, prioritization, and a recovery plan once the skies are clear.

The bottom line? Storm recovery doesn’t start after the damage; it begins with preparation, including asset protection and claims readiness. Fleets that understand how insurance providers process damage will be better positioned to get vehicles back on the road faster.

Hailstorms can cause severe vehicle damage, making prompt inspections and insurance documentation critical for fleet recovery.

Photo Credit: Getty Images/ra-photos

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in May 2025, but was reviewed for continued relevance and accuracy as of July 2026.