The Dangers of Driving Through Flooded Streets

7/31/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded street is risky because your car could be washed away or left stranded.

Driving Through Flooded Streets Is Dangerous

Storms with heavy rainfall can cause dangerous and disastrous situations. When these disasters occur in  Hollywood, FL, it can be a frightening time; homes may be damaged and furniture destroyed, and flooded roads can make it difficult to travel. In most cases, carpets, furniture, and walls can be repaired by calling a restoration specialist. However, when considering whether or not to drive down a flooded street, you must take extra precautions to ensure your safety.

What Are the Dangers?

Travelers often drive through floods without knowing the risks. One of the most dangerous situations is possible car floating when on a street that is flooded. It only takes one foot of water for vehicles to float. Once an automobile begins to do so, control of the car is often lost, which can result in injuries. Many other dangers lurk in the waters:

• Underneath the water, the road could have collapsed, causing giant holes.
  
• Power lines that have fallen in the water are a hazard, as water carries the electrical current.
  
• Rushing water can carry objects down the road.
  
  

When attempting to drive back to your home or leave it in search of safety, remember that the water on a flooded street is dangerous and unpredictable. It is always better to stop and turn around when you are approaching flooded roads.

What Can You Do?

If you are traveling and faced with flooded travel conditions, make sure you check the vehicle’s brakes. When brakes are submerged in flood waters, you may lose the ability to stop the vehicle. The travel tips below may be able to help you in an emergency:

• Do not travel if the water reaches your exhaust, as water can get into your engine.
  
• To keep water out of the engine, drive at 2 mph and work up to 4 mph.
  
• If the waters become too extreme, call 911 or try to safely find your way to higher ground.
  
  

A flooded street is dangerous, and your vehicle could be washed away or stranded. Always take precautions when attempting to travel in flooded conditions. Come up with a safety plan with family in case this situation arises.