What to Do During an Earthquake If You're Driving: Complete Safety Guide

You're driving down the freeway at 65 mph when the steering wheel starts jerking erratically. Your first thought might be a flat tire or mechanical failure. But if the road itself is rippling, cars around you are swerving unpredictably, and power lines are swaying violently overhead, you're experiencing an earthquake while driving—one of the most disorienting and dangerous situations you can face on the road.

During the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake in the San Francisco Bay Area, a section of the Bay Bridge collapsed while vehicles were crossing it. The 1994 Northridge earthquake caused multiple freeway overpasses to fail, crushing vehicles beneath them. The 2011 Christchurch earthquake in New Zealand saw drivers trapped in vehicles as the ground liquefied beneath roadways. In the 2018 Anchorage, Alaska earthquake, dashcam footage showed vehicles lurching violently as highway overpasses buckled and cracked in real time.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about earthquake safety while driving: how to recognize an earthquake when you're behind the wheel, exactly where to pull over and where to avoid at all costs, what to do if you're on a bridge or in a tunnel when shaking starts, how to navigate the immediate aftermath, and the critical decisions that could save your life in those first terrifying seconds.

Recognizing an Earthquake While Driving

The challenge with earthquakes while driving is that your brain doesn't immediately recognize what's happening. Vehicles naturally vibrate, roads have imperfections, and your first instinct is to blame mechanical problems or road conditions.

What an Earthquake Feels Like in a Moving Vehicle

Initial sensations: The wheel jerks or pulls unpredictably, but not in one consistent direction like a flat tire would cause. Your vehicle feels like it's driving over rumble strips or washboard road, but the sensation is more chaotic and multi-directional. The vehicle feels loose or disconnected from the road, as if driving on ice, even though conditions are dry. You constantly correct steering, but the vehicle wanders despite your efforts.

Visual cues that confirm it's an earthquake: Other vehicles swerving or braking erratically. Power lines swaying violently or whipping. Traffic lights swinging on their cables. Road surface rippling or undulating like waves on water. Dust clouds rising from buildings or hillsides. Visible cracks appearing in pavement. Objects falling from buildings or trees. Car alarms going off in parked vehicles.

Auditory signals: Low rumbling sound like distant thunder or heavy machinery. Screeching or grinding from the road surface. Creaking and groaning from nearby structures. Multiple car horns from collisions or panicked drivers. Emergency vehicle sirens beginning to sound.

How Earthquakes Affect Different Driving Conditions

Highway/freeway driving at high speed: At speeds above 50 mph, you'll feel violent jerking of the steering wheel. The vehicle may suddenly pull to one side then the other. Maintaining control is extremely difficult because the road itself is moving beneath you. Modern highway overpasses can amplify shaking—you're essentially on a bridge that's designed to flex, which magnifies the sensation.

City street driving at moderate speed: You'll notice unusual vehicle behavior more quickly at lower speeds. The car may bounce or hop as if hitting potholes repeatedly. Surrounding buildings provide more visual cues—you'll see windows rattling, facades shedding material, and structures swaying visibly.

Stopped at traffic light: This is actually the easiest scenario to recognize. Your vehicle will rock on its suspension, you'll see other stopped vehicles moving independently, and traffic signals will swing dramatically. Without the masking effect of motion, earthquake shaking is obvious.

Parking lot or parking structure: In parking structures, particularly elevated decks, shaking is amplified. The structure itself acts as a resonator. You'll hear tremendous creaking, feel severe bouncing, and see concrete dust falling. Ground-level parking lots provide clear views of surrounding structures and are safer during shaking.

Immediate Actions: The Critical First Seconds

Once you've identified that an earthquake is occurring, you have very limited time to make potentially life-saving decisions. Major earthquake shaking typically lasts 10-60 seconds, though it can feel like an eternity.

Step 1: Slow Down Smoothly

Do NOT slam on brakes. Sudden braking during earthquake shaking dramatically increases crash risk. The road is already moving unpredictably—aggressive braking can cause loss of control. Vehicles behind you may not be able to stop safely on the moving surface. Anti-lock braking systems may function erratically when the ground itself is shifting. Sudden deceleration combined with earthquake forces can cause rollover in top-heavy vehicles like SUVs, vans, and trucks.

Instead: Gradually reduce speed by releasing the accelerator and applying gentle, steady brake pressure. Aim to slow to 20-30 mph before attempting to pull over. This gives you more control and allows you to react to sudden road damage or obstacles.

Step 2: Signal and Move to the Right

Use your turn signal even though this seems absurd during an earthquake. Other drivers are panicking, and any signal of your intentions helps prevent collisions. Move steadily to the right shoulder or as far right as safely possible.

Why the right side? Emergency vehicles will use the left lanes to access disaster areas. In the U.S., the right shoulder is typically wider and more stable. You're less likely to be trapped in the center of stopped traffic. If you need to evacuate your vehicle, you exit away from traffic.

Step 3: Avoid Specific Hazards

As you're pulling over, actively scan for and avoid these critical dangers:

Overpasses and bridges (HIGHEST PRIORITY TO AVOID): If you're approaching an overpass or bridge when shaking starts, you face a split-second decision. If you're less than 100 feet from the end of the bridge/overpass and can safely accelerate through it, do so. Get clear of the structure as quickly as possible without losing control. If you're in the middle of a long bridge, slow down, stay in your lane, and keep moving steadily toward the end. Don't stop unless traffic ahead forces you to. Modern long-span bridges are engineered to flex during earthquakes—staying in motion gives you options if the structure begins to fail. If you're already stopped in bridge traffic when shaking starts, you have no choice but to stay put.

Power lines and poles: Keep at least 30-50 feet away from power lines, utility poles, and transformers. During earthquakes, power lines can snap and fall. Downed power lines may remain energized for hours, electrifying the ground for 35 feet or more around the contact point. Poles can topple without warning.

Buildings and structures: Unreinforced masonry buildings shed facades, bricks, and architectural elements during shaking. Glass windows shatter and fall as deadly shards. Stay at least 50-100 feet from any building taller than two stories if possible. Single-story modern buildings are relatively safe.

Hillsides and slopes: Avoid stopping next to steep hillsides, embankments, or retaining walls. Earthquake shaking triggers landslides, rockfalls, and slope failures. Even stable-looking slopes can release debris during moderate to strong shaking.

Tunnels: If you're in a tunnel when shaking starts, keep moving. Don't stop inside the tunnel. Tunnels can collapse, trap vehicles in fires if electrical systems fail, or become blocked by debris at entrances. Accelerate smoothly and exit the tunnel as quickly as safely possible.

Step 4: Find the Safest Available Spot

In reality, you're not always going to find the perfect pullover location in the 10-30 seconds before you need to stop. You're making the best decision possible with limited time and information.

Ideal pullover location: Wide, paved shoulder. Open area away from buildings, bridges, and overpasses. Flat ground not on a slope or near embankment. Clear of power lines and large trees. Visible to other traffic. Not blocking driveways, fire lanes, or emergency access routes.

What to Do Once You've Stopped

You've pulled over safely. Now what? These next actions maximize your safety during shaking and position you for the aftermath.

Stay in Your Vehicle

Your vehicle provides significant protection during earthquake shaking. The passenger cabin is designed to maintain integrity during impacts and rollovers. It will protect you from falling debris better than being outside. Bright vehicle colors and reflectors make you visible to emergency responders and other drivers. Protection from glass shards, falling objects, and debris. Your car contains radio, phone charger, emergency supplies if you've prepared, and a horn to signal for help.

Keep your seatbelt fastened. If shaking is severe, your vehicle may rock violently even while stopped. The seatbelt prevents you from being thrown around the interior or hitting your head on windows or the roof.

Turn On Hazard Lights

Activate your emergency flashers immediately. This warns other drivers of your stopped position, helps emergency responders identify occupied vehicles, creates a visual pattern if many vehicles do this for aerial search and rescue, and signals to other drivers that this is an emergency stop, not routine.

Turn Off Your Engine

Once you've stopped safely, turn off the ignition. Leave the key in the accessory position so you can use radio. Keep hazard lights on—they work with ignition off. This reduces fire risk if fuel lines rupture, prevents carbon monoxide buildup if you're in a confined area, conserves fuel you may need later to evacuate, and allows you to hear emergency instructions or calls for help.

Turn On Your Radio

Immediately tune to a local news or emergency broadcast station. AM stations have better range and are more likely to have emergency power. Emergency broadcasts will provide critical information: magnitude and epicenter of the earthquake, tsunami warnings if coastal, damaged infrastructure like collapsed bridges and blocked roads, evacuation orders, where to go for help, and what areas to avoid.

Assess Your Immediate Surroundings

While remaining in your vehicle with seatbelt fastened, look around carefully. Above you: Are you under power lines or dangling wires? Are you beneath a damaged overpass or bridge? Are buildings above you shedding debris? Around you: Is the road surface cracked or buckling? Are vehicles around you unoccupied and rolling? Are fires visible? Do you smell gas? Is water gushing from broken mains?

Special Scenarios: Challenging Situations

Stopped on a Bridge When Shaking Starts

This is one of the most frightening scenarios. You're in traffic on a bridge, shaking begins, and you can't move forward or backward.

Immediate actions: Stay in your vehicle. Do not get out and run. The bridge deck is actually safer than the edges, and you're at serious risk of being hit by other vehicles if you're on foot. Stay calm and keep seatbelt fastened. Modern bridges are designed to flex and sway during earthquakes. This movement feels terrifying but is actually the bridge's safety mechanism. Turn on hazard lights. Hold the wheel firmly but not rigidly. Watch for bridge damage signals: large cracks appearing in the deck, sections dropping noticeably, railings collapsing, or extreme tilting.

After shaking stops: Assess bridge condition visually before attempting to drive. Look for obvious structural damage, collapsed sections ahead, or vehicles that have crashed through railings. If traffic begins moving and the bridge appears intact, proceed very slowly at 5-10 mph. If damage is visible or suspected, wait for emergency personnel to assess safety.

In a Tunnel During Earthquake

Tunnels concentrate earthquake forces and limit escape options. If you're moving when shaking starts, accelerate smoothly toward the nearest exit. Don't panic-speed, but don't slow down either. Your goal is to exit the tunnel as quickly as safely possible. Turn on headlights and hazards. If you're stopped in tunnel traffic when shaking starts, stay in vehicle with seatbelt on. Turn off engine immediately—fire risk is higher in tunnels. Monitor for tunnel ceiling/wall failure, water gushing in, or smoke.

Near the Coast

Coastal drivers face a unique additional threat: tsunamis. Any earthquake that you can feel while driving in coastal areas should trigger tsunami awareness.

Critical rules for coastal earthquakes: If shaking is strong and lasts more than 20 seconds, assume tsunami risk. The moment shaking stops, head for high ground immediately. Don't wait for sirens or official warnings. Tsunami evacuation overrides normal earthquake protocol. You may need to drive through stop signs, over damaged roads, and break normal traffic laws to reach safety. Go up at least 100 feet in elevation or 2 miles inland. If you can't drive to high ground fast enough, abandon your vehicle and run/climb to higher ground on foot.

After the Shaking Stops: Resuming Travel

The shaking has stopped. You're safe in your vehicle. Now you need to decide: stay put or resume driving?

When to Stay Put

Stay in your parked vehicle if you're in a safe location away from damaged structures, power lines, and slopes. You're not blocking emergency vehicle access. Radio reports indicate your route home/destination is impassable. You see significant infrastructure damage around you. Emergency broadcasts advise people to shelter in place. Aftershocks are occurring frequently and are strong.

When to Resume Driving

Resume driving if you're currently in a dangerous location and a safer one is accessible nearby. You're blocking emergency vehicle access. You're in a tsunami evacuation zone. Emergency broadcasts advise evacuation of your area. You're at risk where you are from damaged structure, gas leak, fire, or landslide. You can reach home/destination on known safe routes.

Pre-Drive Safety Check

Before you start your engine and resume driving, complete this quick vehicle and surroundings assessment. Walk around your vehicle if safe to exit briefly. Check for flat tires or rim damage, debris under vehicle, fluid leaks like gas, oil, or coolant, and body damage that might affect driveability. Start engine and listen for unusual sounds. Check dashboard warning lights. Test brakes while stationary—the pedal should feel firm. Verify steering wheel turns smoothly both directions.

Driving Immediately Post-Earthquake

If you've decided to drive, follow these protocols for maximum safety: Drive slowly at 15-25 mph maximum until you're confident roads are intact. Increase following distance—keep at least 4-5 seconds behind the vehicle ahead. Be prepared to stop suddenly for road damage, debris, or emergency vehicles.

Hazards to watch for: Road surface damage including cracks, buckling or rippling pavement, sinkholes or subsidence, separated pavement sections with height differences, and missing road sections especially on bridges or elevated highways. Above-road hazards include downed or low-hanging power lines, damaged traffic signals or street lights, weakened trees or limbs, and damaged overpasses that could drop debris. On-road hazards include debris, abandoned or damaged vehicles, crashed vehicles blocking lanes, pedestrians walking on roads, and emergency responders working near the road.

Dealing with Non-Functional Traffic Infrastructure

Treat every intersection with non-functioning signals as a 4-way stop: Come to complete stop. Yield to vehicles already in intersection. Yield to vehicle on your right if you arrive simultaneously with another vehicle. Proceed with extreme caution. Make eye contact with other drivers when possible.

Vehicle Emergency Supplies for Earthquake Zones

If you regularly drive in earthquake-prone areas, keep these supplies in your vehicle at all times.

Basic Emergency Kit

• Water: 1 gallon per person
• Food: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit (non-perishable, no cooking required)
• First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, prescription medications
• Flashlight: LED flashlight with extra batteries or hand-crank flashlight
• Emergency blanket: Mylar space blanket for warmth
• Phone charger: Car charger plus portable battery pack
• Cash: Small bills, $50-100 total for emergencies when credit cards don't work

Specialized Earthquake Supplies

• Work gloves for handling debris or changing tire on damaged road
• Dust masks: N95 masks for post-earthquake dust and smoke
• Whistle to signal for help if trapped
• Multi-tool or knife for various emergency needs
• Duct tape for temporary repairs to vehicle or equipment
• Local maps: Paper maps of your area since GPS may not work
• Emergency contact list: Written list of important phone numbers
• Sturdy shoes in case you need to walk

What NOT to Do During an Earthquake While Driving

Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.

Don't Panic Brake

Slamming on brakes during earthquake shaking causes loss of control, rear-end collisions, and rollovers. The instinct is to stop immediately, but smooth, controlled braking is essential.

Don't Exit Your Vehicle Unless Absolutely Necessary

Your vehicle provides protection from falling debris, other vehicles, and environmental hazards. Pedestrians during earthquakes are at high risk. Exit only if your vehicle is on fire, under a collapsing structure, in the path of tsunami, or emergency responders order evacuation.

Don't Stop Under or On Bridges, Overpasses, or Elevated Highways

These structures can collapse. If you're approaching one when shaking starts, either accelerate through it or stop before it. Don't stop while underneath unless trapped by traffic.

Don't Attempt to Outrun the Earthquake

Earthquake waves travel at thousands of miles per hour. You can't outrun them, and high-speed driving during shaking guarantees a crash.

Don't Use Your Phone While Driving Post-Earthquake

The urge to call or text while driving is strong after an earthquake, but road conditions require your full attention. Pull over safely, then communicate.

Special Considerations for Different Vehicle Types

Motorcycles and Bicycles

Motorcycles: Extremely difficult to control during shaking. Stop as quickly as safely possible. Put feet down to stabilize the bike. Consider getting off the motorcycle if shaking is severe and finding stable ground to sit or lie flat on. Helmet stays on for protection from falling debris.

Bicycles: Get off the bike immediately and move it to the side. Crouch low next to the bike for stability or move away from bike to open area. Protect your head with your arms or helmet. Stay away from buildings and power lines.

Large Trucks and Commercial Vehicles

Challenges include longer stopping distance, higher center of gravity with increased rollover risk, limited visibility, and potentially carrying hazardous materials. Begin slowing immediately when you feel shaking. Use lower gears for better control. Find widest available shoulder. If carrying hazardous materials, notify emergency responders immediately after shaking stops.

Buses (School or Public Transit)

Driver responsibilities: Announce to passengers that you're pulling over due to earthquake. Instruct passengers to stay seated with seatbelts on if equipped. Stop in safest available location. Set parking brake and turn off engine. Account for all passengers after shaking stops. Contact dispatch for instructions. Don't resume route until you've verified road safety and received authorization.

Psychological Aspects of Earthquakes While Driving

Understanding the psychological response to earthquakes helps you maintain control and make rational decisions.

Normal Psychological Reactions

Initial confusion—your brain struggles to identify what's happening. Denial: "This can't be an earthquake" or "It's just a rough road." Fear response with rapid heartbeat, sweating, and hyperventilation. Fight-or-flight activation with urge to act immediately even if action isn't appropriate. Time distortion where 20 seconds of shaking feels like minutes. Tunnel vision with difficulty processing peripheral information. Post-event trembling from adrenaline aftermath causing shaking hands and difficulty concentrating.

Maintaining Psychological Control

During shaking: Take slow, deep breaths even while driving. Use self-talk: remind yourself "I know what to do. Slow down. Pull right. Stop safely." Focus on procedures—follow the steps you've learned to give your mind a task instead of panicking. Accept fear—it's normal and doesn't mean you're handling it wrong.

After shaking: Allow yourself time to calm down before driving. Acknowledge what happened: "I just experienced an earthquake and I'm safe." Talk to others about the experience. Don't feel embarrassed if you're shaken up—everyone reacts to earthquakes. Make decisions when calm, not in the immediate aftermath when adrenaline is high.

Regional Variations and Specific Earthquake Zones

California: Extensive freeway system vulnerable to overpass collapse. Coastal tsunami risk. Well-developed earthquake early warning system called ShakeAlert. Drivers generally more earthquake-aware than other regions.

Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, Alaska): Cascadia Subduction Zone threatens massive M9.0+ earthquake. Widespread tsunami risk along entire coast. Many bridges cross bodies of water—vulnerable points. Drivers less experienced with earthquakes than California.

Nevada, Utah, and Intermountain West: Mountain roads with rockfall risk during earthquakes. Long distances between population centers create stranding risk. Extreme weather compounds earthquake risks.

Central and Eastern United States: New Madrid Seismic Zone (Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky) and Charleston, South Carolina seismic zone. Drivers generally unprepared for earthquakes. Older infrastructure not built to seismic codes.

The Bottom Line: Earthquake Driving Safety

Experiencing an earthquake while driving is terrifying, but it's survivable if you know what to do. The vast majority of drivers who follow proper procedures emerge safely.

Core principles to remember:

1. Slow down smoothly when you feel earthquake shaking
2. Pull to the right shoulder away from hazards
3. Stop and stay in your vehicle with seatbelt fastened
4. Avoid bridges, overpasses, power lines, and buildings
5. Turn on hazards and listen to radio
6. Wait for shaking to stop completely
7. Assess conditions before resuming travel
8. Drive slowly and watch for damage if you must drive post-earthquake

Don't panic. Smooth, deliberate actions keep you safe. Panicked reactions cause crashes and injuries. Preparation makes the difference. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. Know your route's vulnerabilities. Practice the pull-over procedure. Discuss earthquake scenarios with family members who drive.

The few seconds you spend pulling over safely, the minutes you wait in your vehicle while shaking continues, and the cautious driving you do afterward are all investments in your survival. Trust the procedure, stay calm, and you'll get through it safely.

For more comprehensive earthquake safety information, review our guides on emergency preparedness and earthquake-proofing your home. Stay informed about real-time seismic activity on our earthquake monitoring map.