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Here are some questions and answers about hail:

Q: How can I protect my car from hail damage?

A: If you don’t have a garage to shield your car, you may need to get creative if hail is in the forecast. Special inflatable covers that resemble puffer coats for cars may be a good option. They cost several hundred dollars, though, so if that’s not in your budget, you may need to consider cheaper options.

“Raid your linen closet,” State Farm spokesperson Heather Paul suggests. Heavy blankets, layered on your windshield, may help. One car dealer advises anchoring the blankets by tucking edges inside car doors or trunk, then closing them.

Q: Does my auto insurance policy cover hail damage to my car?

A: Protection for your car is covered by your auto policy’s “comprehensive” coverage, which is optional unless required under the terms of your car loan or lease. Check your policy or contact your insurance agent to confirm coverage. The deductible — the amount you pay out of pocket — is commonly $500. After a hailstorm, it’s smart to take pictures and videos to document damage to your car as soon as it’s safe to go outside.

Q: Do insurance policies have special hail deductibles?

A: Policies in hail-prone states may have separate deductibles for hail and wind damage. They usually are based on a percentage of the home’s estimated replacement cost. For a home with a replacement cost of $300,000 and a 2% deductible, you would be responsible for $6,000. To see if you have this deductible, check your policy’s “declarations” page.