Driving on Flooded Roads: What You Need to Know
Texas often experiences crazy weather in the form of hurricanes. While the state is not currently experiencing a hurricane, parts of central Texas are seeing unprecedented amounts of rain. There has been a month’s worth of rain in just a few hours, prompting multiple flash flood emergencies. The town of Hunt received about 6.5 inches in just three hours, which is considered a one-in-100-years rainfall event for the area.
This situation can prove dangerous for Texas drivers. Driving in floods can be treacherous and should be avoided whenever possible. Floodwaters can be deceptively deep and powerful, posing serious risks to both drivers and passengers. Even a small amount of moving water can sweep a vehicle off the road or cause it to stall, leaving occupants trapped.
Always remember: Turn around, don’t drown. Here are the key dangers to keep in mind:
- Vehicle loss of control. As little as 6 inches of water can cause a car to lose traction, and 12 inches can float most vehicles. Larger vehicles, like SUVs and trucks, can be swept away when there is 24 inches of moving water.
- Hidden hazards. Floodwaters often conceal dangers such as sinkholes, debris, downed power lines, or missing pavement. Drivers cannot assess the condition of the road beneath the surface.
- Engine failure. Driving through water can cause hydrostatic lock, a condition where water enters the engine, potentially destroying it and stranding the vehicle.
- Drowning risk. Flooding is a leading cause of weather-related deaths in vehicles. If a car becomes submerged, escaping becomes very difficult, especially if water pressure traps doors and windows.
Safety Tips
When flooding occurs, you need to protect yourself, your family, and your vehicle. Here’s how:
- Get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding such as dips, low spots, drainage ditches, and canyons.
- Do not attempt to cross flowing streams, as they can be powerful enough to knock you down. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, use a stick to check the water depth and firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes. Creeks and streams can rise very rapidly during heavy rainfall, so be prepared to move to higher ground.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
- Use caution when dealing with flood waters, as they may contain snakes, insects, sharp objects, debris, gasoline, or oil.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Flooded roads can be a dangerous situation. Drivers need to be careful when there is water on the road and be prepared to turn around if possible to avoid accidents and stalling.
Get the help you need from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. While each case may be different, our goal is the same: to ensure that our clients receive the maximum amount of compensation for their damages. Fill out the online form or call (281) 347-3247 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
weather.gov/tsa/hydro_tadd
