How to Prep and Protect Your Car to Weather the Storm

Introduction

Hurricane season, which runs through November, brings unpredictable and often devastating weather. With storms like Dorian causing significant damage, it's crucial to prepare your vehicle in advance. Whether you're evacuating or staying put, these tips from MotorVero will help you protect your car and ensure your safety during a hurricane.

2018 Audi A4 Allroad

$24198

Gas

65824 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

2024 Bentley Bentayga

$252097

Gas

47 mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450

$42492

Gas

56030 mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

See More

Fill Up Your Gas Tank and Check Your Fluids

One of the first steps in hurricane preparation is ensuring your car is fueled and ready. As soon as a storm warning is issued, head to the gas station to fill up your tank. Additionally, check your car's fluid levels, including oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. During evacuations, gas stations may become overcrowded or run out of fuel, so it's best to minimize stops on your way to safety.

• Gas Tank: Keep it full to avoid running out of fuel during evacuations.
• Fluids: Regularly check and top off essential fluids to ensure your car runs smoothly.

Pack an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is a must-have for any vehicle, especially during hurricane season. Standard items like jumper cables, tools, a tire jack, a flashlight, and a first aid kit are essential. However, for severe storms, consider adding non-perishable food, bottled water, prescription medications, and extra cash. ATMs may not function during power outages, so having cash on hand is crucial.

• Basic Supplies: Jumper cables, tools, flashlight, first aid kit.
• Additional Items: Non-perishable food, water, medications, cash.

For a comprehensive list of emergency supplies, download FEMA's Emergency Supply List.

--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Take Pictures for Insurance

Before a storm hits, contact your insurance provider to understand what your policy covers. Document your car's condition by taking photos of both the interior and exterior. These pictures can serve as evidence if you need to file a claim for storm-related damage.

• Insurance Check: Verify coverage for hurricane damage.
• Documentation: Take clear photos of your car's condition.
• 

  2023 Tesla Model Y

  $37391

  electric

  15121 mi

  Very Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  2024 Tesla Cybertruck

  $134524

  electric

  445 mi

  Very Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD

  $19375

  Gas

  93184 mi

  Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  See More
  
  

Store Important Documents Safely

Important documents like your insurance policy, car title, and registration should be stored securely. Create digital copies and store them on a password-protected platform. If you need to carry physical copies, place them in a sealed, waterproof bag to prevent damage.

• Digital Copies: Store documents on a secure, password-protected site.
• Physical Copies: Use a waterproof bag for protection.

Park (or Drive) Safely

If you're leaving your car behind, park it on high ground away from trees, power lines, and other potential hazards. If you're driving, exercise extreme caution. Avoid flooded roads and bridges, and drive slowly to navigate safely through the storm.

• Parking: Choose high ground and avoid hazardous areas.
• Driving: Avoid flooded routes and drive cautiously.
• --FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
  

Additional Tips for Hurricane Preparedness

Beyond car preparation, ensure your home and family are ready for the storm. Secure outdoor items, stock up on essentials, and stay informed through local news and weather updates. For more detailed guidance, visit ready.gov/hurricanes.

Conclusion

Preparing your car for a hurricane is a critical step in ensuring your safety and minimizing damage. By following these tips from MotorVero, you can navigate hurricane season with confidence. Stay safe, stay prepared, and protect what matters most.

2023 Tesla Model Y

$37391

electric

15121 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

2024 Tesla Cybertruck

$134524

electric

445 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD

$19375

Gas

93184 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More