Lightning is a dangerous weather phenomenon that causes significant damage every year. In 2012, lightning caused an estimated $1 billion in insured losses from fires, property damage and personal injury [source: Berkshire Hathaway]. The good news is that lightning strikes are rare — the odds of being struck by lightning this year are 1 in 960,000 [Sources: NOAA, National Weather Service.
The first thing to remember if you experience a lightning strike is that your body and car are electrically charged and must dissipate the excess energy together. If lightning strikes your car:
· Stay in the vehicle and keep the windows closed [source: AAA ]. The rubber tires on your car protect you by providing a path for the electricity to follow. So long as you don’t touch anything metal inside, you are safe from electrocution [source: NWS ].
· Keep your hands in your lap to minimize contact with any metal objects. Don’t lean on the doors or grab the steering wheel.
· If the windows don’t roll up, crouch as low as you can in your seat with your head below window level. In a worst-case situation where lightning enters through an open window, the current will follow the path of least resistance into the ground — which is usually through your feet .
·if you have kids in the car, make sure they’re seated and restrained properly.
· If you feel your hair stand on end or your skin prickle, that means the charge is passing through your body. Wait for the charge to dissipate before getting out of your car.
· If you receive a jolt from lightning, that means it has likely struck an object very close to you (like your car). Remain in your car until rescuers can reach you. The lightning may still be around and could send another jolt your way That’s a sign that lightning has struck near you. Don’t panic and remain calm and get to the nearest safe place immediately after the storm passes to avoid getting struck by lightning a second time.
Once the storm has passed, check your car for damage. If you see any signs of damage — like smoke or an unusual smell — get out immediately and move away from the vehicle [source: National Storm Shelter Association]. Lightning can ignite fuel in the tank.
John Que Public 