Your heart’s probably doing a drum solo in your chest right now. That’s fine. But do not stomp on the brakes or jerk the wheel. You might be stunned, literally and figuratively, but your car is still totally drivable.
Find a safe spot off the road—an empty parking lot or a wide shoulder. Put on your hazard lights. Let everyone know you’re having a moment. And whatever you do, don’t get out of the car yet.
Seriously. Stay inside. The ground around you could still be electrified, and rubber-soled sneakers won’t help you there. You’re the king or queen of your metal castle. Enjoy the throne.
But My Tires Are Rubber—Isn’t That Enough?
Ah, the classic myth! Tires do help insulate, but only a little. The real magic is the car’s metal body conducting the charge around you. If you’re in a convertible with a fabric roof? Uh, you might want to check your homeowner’s insurance later. But for most of us in a standard car?
You’re basically a lightning-proof Snickers bar—the wrapper (your car) takes the hit, but the choco-nougat inside (you) stays perfectly fine. Unless you were holding a metal golf club. Then you’re just asking for drama.
