Make the driving decision before you focus on the lightning myth

Lightning may be the headline hazard, but the immediate driving risk can be wind, hail, flooding, or visibility. Handle the road first, then choose the safest shelter available.

  1. 01
    Do not try to outrun the storm

    Use weather information and the road ahead to move toward a substantial building only when the route remains safe. A fast lane change, sudden shoulder stop, or flooded shortcut creates a more immediate crash risk than calmly leaving the storm area.

  2. 02
    If driving becomes unsafe, get completely out of traffic

    Choose a legal parking area, rest area, or other location well away from travel lanes when possible. Avoid hilltops, isolated trees, exposed ridgelines, drainage channels, and places where wind could drop branches or utility lines onto the vehicle.

  3. 03
    Keep the passenger compartment closed

    In a fully enclosed hard-topped metal vehicle, close the windows and doors and remain inside. Avoid leaning against exposed metal connected to the vehicle structure, and do not step outside just to watch or photograph the storm.

  4. 04
    Wait for the lightning threat to move away

    A lull in rain does not mean the lightning risk is over. If you have stopped specifically for lightning safety, follow current National Weather Service guidance and remain in safe shelter for the recommended period after the last thunder.

Not every vehicle provides the same kind of lightning shelter

Enclosed hard-topped metal car, SUV, or pickup cab
Temporary lightning shelter when a substantial building is not available

The outer metal shell is the important protective feature. Keep windows closed and occupants inside while the storm is close.

Convertible, open-top vehicle, motorcycle, ATV, or golf cart
Leaving for a substantial enclosed building as soon as it can be done safely

These should not be assumed to provide the same metal-shell protection as an enclosed hard-topped vehicle.

Car parked under an isolated tree or beside damaged utility lines
Relocating before the storm is directly overhead if the route is still safe

Falling limbs, fire, and energized wires can make an otherwise enclosed vehicle a poor place to wait.

After a suspected lightning strike, inspect before you simply drive away

  • Look for smoke, fire, a burning odor, or visible electrical damage before restarting or touching damaged exterior parts
  • Check whether any tire is visibly damaged or rapidly losing pressure
  • Confirm the windshield and rear glass are intact enough for safe visibility
  • Watch for warning lights, no-start conditions, failed exterior lighting, or other electrical problems
  • Stay away from any downed power line touching the vehicle or the ground nearby and call emergency services or the utility
  • Arrange professional inspection if the vehicle was struck, shows electrical damage, or cannot be driven safely

Stop and get help

Do not leave the vehicle to deal with a downed power line

If a power line falls on or near the vehicle, treat the line and the ground around it as energized. Stay inside unless fire or another immediate life threat forces evacuation, warn others to stay away, and call 911 and the utility. If emergency escape is unavoidable, follow dispatcher instructions rather than stepping normally from the vehicle to the ground.