22/10/2025
To safely get out of your car on a windy day, park facing into the wind and maintain a firm grip on the door as you exit. This prevents the wind from catching the door and damaging the hinges or injuring you.
Before you open the door
Check the wind direction: Observe how other cars are being affected or look at trees and flags to judge the wind's strength and direction.
Pull into a sheltered area: If possible, park in a garage or behind a building to block the wind. If you are on the street, park on the side where the car's body will shield you as you exit.
Park into the wind: By parking your vehicle so the nose faces into the wind, you reduce the risk of a gust catching your door like a sail.
While opening the door
Firmly grip the handle: Keep a tight hold on the door from the moment you begin to open it. Avoid loosening your grip at all.
Open slowly and carefully: Open the door just enough for you to get out. Avoid swinging it all the way open, as this gives the wind a larger surface area to push against.
Keep your body low: As you exit, keep your body low to minimize the area the wind can hit, which helps you maintain your balance.
Before driving again
Beware of large vehicles: After exiting, be mindful of larger vehicles like trucks or buses. When you pass them, be prepared for a strong crosswind as you leave their slipstream.
Pull over if needed: If the wind is too strong to drive safely, pull over to a sheltered spot away from trees, power lines, or other objects that could fall on your vehicle.
