What Happens When Lightning Hits Your Car? Here's How to Stay Safe

http://www.wunderground.com/news/what-happens-when-lightning-hits-car-20140625

By: By Chrissy Warrilow
Published: June 26, 2014

It is a widespread myth that the reason vehicles provide protection from lightning is due to the tires.

In actuality, lightning flows around the outside of a car, and the majority of the current flows from the car's metal cage into the ground below. In essence, a car acts like a mobile Faraday cage.

However, not all vehicles are created equal.

Convertibles do not have metal roofs, which compromises the Faraday cage affect. In addition, some vehicles are manufactured out of non-metal parts, which impedes electricity's ability to flow through the car.

Another caveat with regards to lightning safety within vehicles is the fact that some portions of the current can flow through the vehicle's electrical systems and metal appendages including radios, cell phone chargers, GPS units as well as car door handles, foot pedals, the steering column and the steering wheel. The National Lightning Safety Institute reports that some vehicles struck by lightning experience external damage, including pitting and arcing, as well as internal damage to electronic systems and components.

Bottom line, if you're away from home, the best way to stay safe during a lightning storm is to head for a metal-topped vehicle. However, it is important to fold your hands in your lap and avoid touching anything metal within the car. You also should not to touch the radio or talk on the cell phone, especially if it is connected to your vehicle. If you are driving, pull to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, turn off the engine and wait out the storm.

At what point is it safe to exit the vehicle?

Once the electrical current has passed through the vehicle and entered into the ground, it is technically safe to exit the vehicle. However, it is best to wait until the thunderstorm has passed before getting out of your car.