After an earthquake, some ground areas may develop cracks or bulges, so pay extra attention to road conditions while driving and avoid speeding. Some surfaces may also sink. If your car gets stuck, leave the vehicle immediately and seek temporary shelter in a nearby safe area — no car is more valuable than your life. If you've left your car and are taking shelter in a public place, stay calm and avoid panicking due to crowds. It’s important to remain composed, calmly look for an exit, and avoid running around aimlessly.
What to do if you’re driving during an earthquake
1. Find an open space to park immediately. If you’re driving and suddenly feel an earthquake, and you’re on an urban road or in an area without open spaces to take cover, turn on your hazard lights immediately, slow down, and park your car in an open area.
2. If there are tall buildings nearby, take cover between two cars (latest car news). If you’re in a parking lot during an earthquake and surrounded by high-rises, get out of your car immediately, crouch or lie down with your head protected in the space between two vehicles. This way, when buildings collapse, larger falling debris is more likely to hit the cars first, reducing the chance of direct impact on you. The gap between vehicles can become a life-saving space, increasing your chances of survival.
3. Avoid bridges and tunnels. During an earthquake, do not enter long bridges, tunnels, overpasses, or similar structures. If you're already inside, leave as quickly as possible. If the road surface sinks or other dangers arise, stop the vehicle immediately, and all occupants should get out and find a safe, open (car channel) area nearby for shelter.
4. If your vehicle is still moving, try to secure yourself as much as possible. If you're in a moving car when an earthquake strikes, passengers in seats should fasten their seatbelts, place their arms on the seat cushion in front, protect their face and torso toward the aisle, and use both hands to guard their head.
Post-earthquake driving precautions
After an earthquake, try not to park near fences, walls, single-story houses, or utility poles, to prevent them from collapsing onto your car. After an earthquake, some ground areas may develop cracks or bulges, so pay extra attention to road conditions while driving and avoid speeding. Some surfaces may also sink. If your car gets stuck (car images), leave the vehicle immediately and seek temporary shelter in a nearby safe area — no car is more valuable than your life. If you’ve left your car and are taking shelter in a public place, stay calm and avoid panicking due to crowds. It’s important to remain composed, calmly look for an exit, and avoid running around aimlessly. Try to find open areas for shelter whenever possible.