Spring in the Midwest is a beautiful time of year. However, the season also brings with it the threat of destructive tornados. With winds that can reach 300 mph, tornados cause significant damage wherever they touch down. They throw debris in the air, destroy buildings, and kill livestock and people.
In order to stay safe on the road, our personal injury attorneys want drivers to remember these tornado safety tips.
“When you are in your automobile during a tornado, it’s extremely important to know how to protect yourself,” says Scott Mann, personal injury attorney. “If you can see the tornado at a distance from the road, compare the tornado’s movement to a tree or telephone pole. If it’s not moving directly toward you, then you can move away from it by driving in right angles. If the tornado is moving toward you, however, do not try and outrun it.”
If a tornado is moving toward your car, it’s time to stop and take shelter. If it’s possible, find a sturdy building for protection. When a rest stop, gas station, or restaurant is unavailable, the next safest place is a ditch away from the road. Lay down flat and cover your head with your arms until the storm passes. Never take cover beneath your car or under an overpass. Due to its construction, the overpass will act as a wind funnel and may collapse during a tornado.
“If there’s a tornado heading toward your city or town, do not get in your car to outrun it,” Mike Wyatt explains, personal injury attorney. “Tornados can travel over 60 mph on the ground and are unpredictable in the route they take. It’s better to seek immediate protection in your storm shelter. You do not want to get stuck in traffic while the tornado bears down on your vehicle.”
If a tornado is on top of your automobile, pull over as quickly as you can. Do not get out of your car or truck. Crouch low to the floor, keep away from windows, and cover your head. Please call the personal injury attorneys of Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys for more information on tornado road safety.
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