Being Safe: Driving On Flooded Roads
After a period of prolonged heavy rain or even after a flash downpour the roadside drains can easily be overcome by the deluge, resulting in high levels of surface water on the road.
The depth of the flooded road can be difficult to assess from the drivers seat, and if you do decide to drive through it is important to use the correct techniques to avoid your vehicle becoming flooded and leaving you stranded in the middle of the water.
When assessing the depth of the flooded road try and use roadside markers like kerbstones, or sign poles to help you gauge its depth. If however, you are at all unsure about how deep the water is then it is best to wait for another driver to attempt to pass through it first. The consequences of a flooded car can be very expensive to repair so it is far better to wait and see how high the water comes up on another vehicle, than take the risk with your own car.
Even when the rain on the road is a couple of centimetres caution still needs to be made in reducing your speed. If you go the speed limit you could still be entering a scenario in which the tyres are unable to grip the surface. A hydroplane could result in which you skid over the water and it could cause a loss of control.
Crossing through deep water has the potential to cause considerable damage to your car’s engine, especially if water enters the air intake and goes on into the cylinders. If this happens, the engine will normally stop instantly and not restart, and you will be left with a very expensive repair bill. Its important to note that the height of the air intake can vary from car to car, although a good guide is not to cross through water that is deeper than the level of your car lights.
Once you determine that the water is safe, you should put the car in first gear. You want to keep your revs at a high level, but the speed low. To do this you can put the clutch on or brake while still using the gas to move forward.
You want to drive through the centre of the road as that will be the shallower area. You will need to keep an eye out for other vehicles that may be travelling more quickly. They could send water up into your car and be less safe.
Once through the hazard, apply your brakes several times to allow them to dry off and to check that they are still working effectively before continuing on your journey.
Driving through a heavily flooded road requires considerable caution and adequate preparation, however if you are at all unsure about your chances of crossing through successfully, then it is best to turn around and find an alternative route.