KELLER, Texas — It was a tough night, and now a tough day, for Mark Simpson, who lives in far north Fort Worth.
"I can't think of much else to do except cry, maybe," he said, laughing.
Wednesday night's hail storm meant Thursday was spent assessing the damage to his home and cars.
"I didn't think it was gonna be this bad," he said. "From what I've seen so far, my roof is shot. Cars, windows are shot. Lost of dents in them."
Simpson started his day by calling his insurance agent, which is exactly what you're supposed to do, says Chris Pilcic with State Farm. That way you can get guidance on the best next steps and also understand what your coverage is.
As of Thursday afternoon, thousands had called State Farm to file claims -- many of them coming from the north Fort Worth/Keller area.
Here are three things to know if you had storm damage.
1. Pilcic's first piece of advice:
"Start your insurance claims process as soon as you know you have damage," he said. "Document everything with pictures and video, and share those with your insurance company."
2. Don't make quick, emotional decisions.
"Don't be tempted by door-to-door solicitations," Pilcic recommended. "Ask for recommendations for contractors and get multiple estimates that are detailed and in writing."
3. And finally, especially with the threat of more rain, do what you can to safely keep the damage from getting worse.
"It's important to consider temporary repairs," Pilcic said. "If you buy tarps or plywood or hire that work done, document what you've done with pictures, save all of those receipts."
That's exactly what Simpson was doing.
"About the best I can do," he said, chuckling as he put plastic over his brand new truck's windshield.
He kept a good, calm attitude, even as he struggled to comprehend just how much damage he sustained.
"All I see is money," he said.