Preparing for a Drive in Stormy Weather
One of the greatest threats to your vehicle and your own personal safety is a strong storm. Storm forces can cause significant damage and injury through flooding, hail, strong winds, and snow or ice buildup. Storms also can create low visibility conditions that make it more difficult for drivers to safely steer their vehicles. If you are caught driving in a storm, you are at risk of experiencing significant vehicle damage and possibly an accident that results in serious injury.
Planning Ahead for Stormy Weather
The best way to prevent injury and damage from a storm is to stay indoors during bad weather. Always check the weather forecast before leaving your home or work and do not drive if a storm is expected. Store your vehicle in a garage or under a covered carport if you have one, or ask your neighbor to share covered space if available. At the very least, protect yourself by staying indoors or under a covered area while it is storming. Do not attempt to drive during stormy weather if you can avoid it.
Packing an Emergency Kit
Sometimes storms develop unexpectedly. It is a good idea to store some spare supplies and provisions in your vehicle in case this ever happens to you. Keep a couple of days’ worth of food and water in your car, along with the following supplies:
- A flashlight with spare batteries
- Emergency flares
- A blanket and/or change of clothes
- Battery-charging equipment
- Equipment to change a tire
- Cell phone and charger
These essentials can be especially important if you are isolated during a flood or blizzard and cannot get to a safe, sheltered area. Whenever the weather conditions turn dangerous, it may be best to stay put wherever you are until the storm passes or help arrives.
Just as these supplies can help to keep you safe in stormy weather, comprehensive coverage insurance can help protect your finances if your vehicle is damaged in a storm. This type of coverage insures your vehicle against any damage that results from hail, falling branches, strong winds, or other storm forces.
Contact Us
To learn more about how comprehensive auto insurance coverage can protect you from costly storm damage, contact the helpful Chicago car insurance professionals of Insure on the Spot today at 888-972-SAVE.