During a thunderstorm, being inside a vehicle is generally one of the safest places to be because the metal frame acts as a protective cage. However, to avoid lightning-related danger, you should stay inside the car, keep windows closed, and avoid touching metal parts or electronic controls until the storm passes.

In this article, we explain How to avoid being struck by lightning in a car in detail.

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How to Avoid Being Struck by Lightning in a Car?

Although sitting inside a car is one of the safest places during a lightning storm, you should still take precautions to reduce the chance of a lightning strike and to keep yourself safe if it happens.

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1. Choose a Safe Location for the Car

A) Stay away from tall or isolated objects

Avoid parking near:

• Tall trees
• Poles or telephone towers
• Light posts
• Metal fences
• Wind turbines

Lightning is more likely to strike tall or isolated structures, and your car could be hit due to proximity.

B) Avoid open fields and hilltops

Parking on a hill or an open field increases the risk because your car becomes the highest object.

C) Pull over safely

If you’re driving during lightning:

• Find a safe spot
• Pull over slowly
• Keep hazard lights on if needed

Do not panic brake.

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2. Stay Inside the Car (Most Important)

✔ Do NOT get out of the vehicle.

People outside the car are at a MUCH higher risk.

Lightning protection works only when you are inside the enclosed metal body.

✔ Close all windows

Prevents moisture entry and keeps you fully enclosed.

✔ Sit still with hands in your lap

Minimizes chances of touching conductive parts.

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3. Avoid Touching Conductive Materials

To stay completely safe inside, avoid touching:

• Metal door handles
• Gear shifter (if metal)
• Steering wheel metal parts
• Window frames
• Seat belt buckle (avoid touching during the strike)

Electricity can briefly travel through the metal frame in a lightning strike.

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4. Avoid Using Electronic Devices

❌ Do NOT touch:

• Mobile phones connected to the charger
• Built-in touchscreens during the strike
• Metal-body laptops or devices

Lightning may cause electrical surges through the vehicle’s wiring.

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5. Turn Off Non-Essential Electronics

Turn off or reduce the use of:

• Radio
• A/C blower (optional)
• USB chargers

This helps protect the electronics in case lightning hits the car.

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6. Do Not Touch Anything Connected to the Outside

Avoid:

• Opening the door
• Leaning out of the window
• Holding an umbrella
• Touching the exterior metal from inside

This removes your contact with potential electrical paths.

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7. Avoid Driving Through Floodwater During Storms

Lightning storms often bring heavy rain.
Floodwater can:

• Increase electrical hazards
• Cause hydroplaning
• Damage the engine or battery system

Park safely instead of driving through water.

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8. Stop-and-Wait Technique

If lightning is intense and constant:

• Stop the car
• Turn on hazard lights
• Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before moving

This reduces exposure during peak storm activity.

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9. Avoid Using Cruise Control

During storms:

• Visibility may reduce
• Roads become slippery
• Reaction time matters

Disable cruise control for full manual control.

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10. After the Storm Passes

If you suspect the car was struck:

• Do not panic; you were still safe inside
• Check for:
  • Burn marks
  • Tire damage
  • Electronics failures
• Get the car inspected by a mechanic if necessary

Lightning damage to the car is rare but possible.

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Summary

To avoid being struck by lightning in a car, you should:

• Stay inside with windows closed
• Avoid touching metal or electronics
• Park away from tall objects and open fields
• Keep your hands in your lap
• Wait for the storm to pass before exiting

The metal car body acts as a Faraday cage, keeping you safe as long as you remain inside.

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