Is it safe to drive a car during a thunderstorm?

BOOM! Big black clouds are moving in, flashes of fire light up the sky, and suddenly you are completely overwhelmed by the power of nature. The problem is that you're driving and you're not entirely sure if this is a wonderful occurrence or something you should be concerned about.

The truth is, it's both. No one can dispute the beauty of a thunderstorm, but the fact is that driving in one can be dangerous. And it's not that you have to worry about being struck by lightning - it's actually very unlikely. However, an accident is possible because you cannot see where you are going. Add to this the danger of other people who do not adapt their driving habits to the conditions, and you have a recipe for disaster.

So how do you keep yourself safe while driving in a thunderstorm?

• Build in extra time. If you think a storm is brewing, consider poor driving conditions. Leave early to arrive safely and on time.

• Remember that every second you spend driving in a storm increases your chances of having an accident. Slow down if you can, and if you can't, be very careful.

• Check your mirrors. Remember, trash will be everywhere.

• Obey the rules of the road. Don't speed. In fact, during a storm, consider the speed limit a "proposal." Ideally, you will slow down for conditions.

• Be patient. Other drivers are just as nervous as you are, so if someone lingers at a traffic light a little longer, give them a break.

• Watch out for speeders. We know it sounds crazy, but there are a lot of cowboys who know perfectly well that the cops are unlikely to stop them in a storm to issue a ticket.

• Use common sense. Remember that you are driving in very dangerous conditions, so as important as it is that you get where you are going, remember that in a big storm, sometimes you may have a choice: to arrive late or not at all. . Ride safely.

Is it safe to ride in a thunderstorm? No. But sometimes it's necessary. So if you absolutely have to drive in terrible conditions, follow the above safety rules. You may arrive there late, but you will get there safe and sound.