3 Reasons to Avoid Driving During a Flood
6/3/2021 (Permalink)
It can be frustrating to be stuck inside your house when it’s flooding but it is important that you avoid driving in this situation. A flooded street may seem easy to handle, but it can be a risk to your safety. The following are just a few reasons why it is best to stay off the roads during a severe storm.
1. It can damage your vehicle
One reason to avoid flooded roads is that it can cause serious damage to your vehicle. Your car is not made to be driven in water, so it does not have the necessary equipment to protect it. If water enters your engine, it can cause it to stop functioning correctly and leave you with massive repair bills. Areas of your car may rust, and electronic components can be ruined.
2. There may be hidden road damage
Even if you think the road looks safe, there might be something lurking beneath the water’s surface. A flooded street may be hiding potholes, tree branches and debris from the storm. Any of these could damage your car and make it more difficult for you to drive safely.
3. You could lose control of your car
Whether you have been driving for a few years or a few decades, you cannot be prepared for everything. Even a long history of driving experience is not enough to keep you safe during a flood. Moving water in a flooded street can easily sweep your car away and create an incredibly dangerous situation. Just a few inches of water can cause you to hydroplane and result in a crash.
One of the best travel tips for driving during a flood is simply not to do it. Stay put if possible and, once the water has receded, you can find a more comfortable place to stay while an emergency restoration company performs any necessary repairs on your damaged home.