What to Do If an Earthquake Occurs While Driving?
3 Answers
Stop the car as soon as possible: When we are driving and suddenly feel an earthquake, and if we are on urban roads or there is no open space around to take temporary shelter, we should immediately slow down and stop the car, park it by the roadside, turn on the hazard warning lights, and wait until the earthquake is over before continuing to drive. Do not enter tunnels or under bridges: In addition, during an earthquake, do not enter long bridges, dams, or tunnels. If you have already entered, leave quickly. When we encounter an earthquake while driving, the first thing to do is to find an open area to park, then find an open area to crouch down with your hands over your head. If you are on an urban road, you should park your car by the roadside and turn on the hazard warning lights, so that your car will not obstruct the route of rescue vehicles after the earthquake. After the earthquake, the ground may crack or bulge. At this time, you must drive carefully, slow down, and always pay attention to and check relevant road condition information to ensure a safe escape. If your vehicle is already stuck, do not hesitate; leave the vehicle immediately and find a safe place to take shelter. Do not let your beloved car put you in a difficult situation. At the same time, remember to turn off the engine when abandoning the car, but do not lock it, so that rescue teams can move the car away and avoid blocking the road.
I experienced an earthquake while driving once, and it was quite frightening. I immediately slowed down and carefully pulled over, finding an open area away from bridges or tall buildings that could collapse. I stayed in the car until the shaking stopped—never getting out—as the vehicle can serve as a small shelter from falling debris. After the tremors ended, I checked my surroundings for hazards like landslides or road cracks before moving. Later, I also inspected my car for damage and made timely repairs to prevent future issues. I’ve made it a habit to keep an emergency kit in my car with water, food, and first-aid supplies for unexpected situations. Developing such habits greatly improves calmness when dealing with emergencies.
As a driving safety enthusiast, I focus on the combination of prevention and response. At the first sign of an earthquake, I immediately slow down gradually, stop the car, and choose a safe area to avoid hazards like power poles and tunnel entrances. I stay inside the vehicle, lock the doors, and wait for the shaking to stop—the car body is relatively safe, so avoid unnecessary movement. After the shaking stops, I first assess the external situation carefully before getting out of the car to ensure there are no secondary threats. I recommend keeping emergency supplies in the car, such as flashlights and medical supplies. The entire process emphasizes staying calm—avoid reckless acceleration or opening doors unnecessarily—to minimize risks and ensure safety.
