It’s estimated that trillions of cicadas will emerge this season across the Midwest and Southeast region of the U.S.

Cicadas are mostly harmless to pets and people. However, since there will be so many, they can cause issues for vehicles and drivers. From obscuring your view out of the windshield to clogging up radiator grilles, cicadas can create chaos and damage if you’re not paying close attention.

When and where will the cicadas emerge?

Two different broods (or groups) will come out from mid-May to late June to mate and lay eggs.

• Brood XIX will arrive in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
• Brood XIII will arrive in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, and possibly Michigan.

How can vehicle owners protect their cars?

The experts at the American Automobile Association (AAA) have warned drivers about some of the challenges cicadas pose. With their attraction to heat and rising summer temperatures, these insects may cause some costly repairs and damage.
Some tips AAA recommends to vehicle owners and drivers include:

Protect Your Paint: Bugs can eat away at your car’s exterior. With trillions of cicadas predicted to emerge this year, you could have quite a few on your vehicle. AAA recommends washing your car often and paying special attention to your headlights and windshield. Wax might be an appropriate additional layer of protection for your vehicle too.

Make Sure Your Wipers Are in Good Condition: Bugs and insects can quickly decrease your visibility. Stay prepared to clear your windshield as needed with good wipers and washer fluid. A bug washer fluid might be a good option for this period of cicada emergence.

Clear Radiator Grilles: Radiator grilles help keep your car cool. If it becomes clogged with cicadas (or anything else), your car is at risk of overheating. AAA recommends using a bug screen, grille cover, or adding netting.

Check Your Filters: Cicadas can hide in air and cabin filters. If you hear any weird noises, it might be time to have your car inspected by a qualified professional, according to AAA.

What can drivers do if a cicada gets inside the vehicle while driving?

With so many cicadas predicted to emerge, a cicada may accidentally get inside your vehicle while you are driving.

If this happens, AAA says to remain calm. Cicadas do not pinch, bite, or sting. The insect cannot harm you. Remaining calm can help increase your chances of staying safe and avoiding a crash. You can always pull over when it is safe and legal to do so and let the insect out.

Spring and summertime pose unique risks to vehicle owners and drivers. From potholes to cicadas, taking proactive measures can help keep you and others safe on the road, in case the unexpected happens.

Having the right auto insurance coverage is an important proactive measure. Coverage that meets your unique needs and life circumstances can help protect you in the long run.

If you’d like to review your policy or see what else is available to you, call us at (844) 358-5605. We’re happy to help.

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