The weather in the Midwest can change in a heartbeat. While we all know to head to the basement at home, what happens if you’re driving on I-294 or a back road in Gurnee when a tornado warning is issued? At R Hobbs Insurance, your safety is our top priority. Watch our 30-second survival guide below.
tornado-safety-tips-drivers-rhobbs by Chris Faggi1. Know the Warning Signs In Northern Illinois, you can’t always rely on sirens—especially if you’re inside a moving vehicle with the AC or radio on. Watch for:
- Dark, greenish-colored clouds.
- Large hail (which often precedes a tornado).
- A loud “jet engine” roar.
2. The Golden Rule: Never Outrun a Tornado It’s a common instinct to hit the gas, but tornadoes can travel at over 60 mph and change direction instantly. If you can see the tornado, you are likely too close to outrun it.
3. If You Are Stuck in Your Car If there is no sturdy building nearby:
- Stay in the car: Keep your seatbelt buckled.
- Get low: Duck your head below the window level and cover it with your hands or a blanket if you have one.
- Avoid Overpasses: A common myth is that bridges provide safety; in reality, they can act as a “wind tunnel” for debris.
4. When to Abandon the Vehicle If flying debris becomes a threat and you can safely exit the car to a spot lower than the roadway (like a ditch or culvert), do so. Lie face down and keep your hands over your head.
Does My Policy Cover Tornado Damage?
If you have Comprehensive Coverage on your auto policy, damage from a tornado (including falling branches, hail, or wind damage) is typically covered. At R Hobbs Insurance, we’re happy to review your policy to make sure you have the right protection before storm season hits.
Stay safe on the road! For questions or a policy review, call us at 847-680-0888.
If you do experience storm damage to your vehicle, try to take photos of the scene and the damage as soon as it is safe to do so. This helps us expedite your claim and get you back on the road faster!