Safety Driving in a Hail Storm

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Vehicle damage from a hail storm.

During spring time, rain storms and thunderstorms are a common occurrence. While some of these result in light to moderate rainfall, some may produce hail. Hail storms can cause injuries, and they can be damaging to your property. If you encounter a hail storm, here are some safety tips.

• Hail falls down fast, and can cause injury. If you are in your car when hail begins, it’s best to stay inside your vehicle until the storm passes.
• The speed of your vehicle can amplify the impact of falling hail, and could cause your windshield or any other windows to break. Safely pull your car off the road when hail begins to fall. If possible, parking under a nearby overpass can protect your vehicle from further damage.
• Park your car on an uphill slope, if one is available. Your windshield is designed to stand hard impacts, where the rest of the windows are not.
• When in your car, it is best to be lying down with your back up. Cover yourself with any available blankets or coats to protect yourself from debris in case any windows break.

During any storm it’s important to make sure your radio is on to hear any storm warnings and updates.