Just like homeowners, floods also pose a huge threat to motorists. Floods can occur just about anywhere and can sometimes strike suddenly. In the United States, flash floods are the number one weather-related cause of death, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The majority of the fatalities involved with floods are because people try to navigate through them instead of avoiding them altogether.
When driving in a flood, pay attention to any barricades and do not ignore them. The barricades are there for a reason. Avoid driving through standing water on roads or parking lots. The average vehicle can be swept off the road in a foot of moving water. In addition, roads that are covered by water are prone to collapse. Driving through water can also stall your engine, which may lead to irreparable damage if you attempt to restart the engine. You’re better off avoiding a flood zone at all costs.
If avoiding flooded roads is not an option, take extra precautions. First, try and estimate the depth of the water. If you see other cars driving through it, make a note of how deep it is. If you determine that the water isn’t too deep, drive slowly and steadily. Always avoid driving in water that downed power lines have fallen into as electric current passes through water very easily.
If you have navigated water that reached up to your car’s rims or higher, you should test your brakes on a clear area of road at lower speeds. If the brakes are wet and not stopping the car like they’re supposed to, try drying them. To dry them, take your left foot and press gently on the brake pedal while maintaining speed with the right foot.
Be on the look out for any items or debris that is traveling towards you. If you’re in their path, these items can potentially trap or crush you. If you vehicle stalls in water, you might have to restart the engine. Remember that restarting the engine could cause irreparable damage. In the event that you cannot restart your car, abandon it immediately by attempting to open the door or rolling down the window. If you cannot get out safely, call 911 or alert someone nearby on higher ground to do so.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
