Safe Driving Tips for Summertime Weather Conditions
Tornados:
- Do not drive during tornado conditions.
- Never try to out-drive a tornado in a vehicle. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift a car or truck and toss it through the air.
- Get out of your vehicle immediately and seek shelter in a nearby building.
- If there is no time to get indoors, or if there is no nearby shelter, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or a low-lying area away from the vehicle. Over passes also can be places of refuge, however, be aware of the potential for flooding.
Severe Thunderstorms and Lightning:
- Tune in to your radio to stay informed of approaching storms.
- If you see a tornado or hear a tornado warning, don’t try to outrun it. View tornado driving safety tips.
- Turn on your headlights (low beams) and slow down. Many states require the use of headlights during rain.
- Allow extra distance for braking.
- Do not drive unless necessary.
- Pull safely onto the shoulder of the road away from any trees that could fall on the vehicle.
- Stay in the car and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rains subside.
- An automobile provides better insulation against lightning than being in the open.
- Avoid contact with any metal conducting surfaces either inside your car or outside.
- Avoid flooded roadways.
- Avoid downed power lines.
- Check your windshield wipers and tires regularly to insure that they are ready for severe weather.
- Approach intersections with caution
- Treat traffic lights at intersections as stop signs.
