How to Drive Safely Through Flooded Roads

Driving through flooded roads is a risky endeavor that requires careful assessment and cautious execution. Floodwaters can obscure road conditions, create powerful currents, and cause significant vehicle damage. However, if you find yourself needing to navigate such conditions, here are some practical steps to help you assess flooded roads, maintain control of your vehicle, and avoid water damage.

Assess the situation first

Before attempting to drive through any flooded area, assess the situation carefully. Determine the depth of the water by looking for markers, such as the curb or nearby objects. As a rule of thumb, avoid driving through water that is more than six inches deep, as even this relatively shallow depth can cause a loss of control. Remember, just a few inches of moving water can sweep a car off the road.

Watch for debris and currents

Floodwaters often carry debris such as branches, rocks, or other hazardous materials, which can damage your vehicle or impede your path. Observe the water’s surface for any visible obstacles. Be mindful of the current’s strength before proceeding, as fast-moving water poses a higher risk of losing control.

Use the right lane techniques

If you’re confident that the road is passable, it’s often best to stick to the center of the roadway where the water is likely to be at its shallowest. Drive slowly and steadily to avoid creating a wave, which can not only damage your vehicle’s internal components but also push water deeper into sensitive areas.

Maintain a slow and steady pace

Keep your vehicle in low gear, drive slowly, and maintain a consistent speed. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, as these actions can cause your vehicle to hydroplane or lose traction. A steady pace reduces the chance of water entering the exhaust pipe or engine compartment.

Keep your distance from other vehicles

Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid collisions in case of sudden stops. Ensure you have enough space should you need to maneuver around stalled vehicles or other obstacles.

Test your brakes afterward

Once you are through the flooded area and reach dry ground, gently test your brakes to ensure they’re still functioning correctly. Water can impact brake performance, and gently pressing the brake pedal helps to dry out the brakes if they’ve become wet.

Check for immediate damage

After successfully navigating through floodwaters, check your vehicle for any immediate signs of damage. Look for water entering the passenger compartment and listen for any unusual noises from the engine or brakes. If you suspect any issues, it’s best to have a professional mechanic check your vehicle as soon as possible.

Managing your vehicle while driving through flooded areas can be challenging, but you can equip yourself with the right information about your vehicle beforehand. Use Bumper’s online tools to access regularly updated vehicle history reports, compare vehicles, shop for the best auto insurance rates, and get market value estimates. Whether you’re shopping for a new car, comparing auto insurance policies, or looking to sell an existing vehicle, Bumper has you covered every step of the way. Make informed decisions and help ensure your vehicle’s safety and value with Bumper’s detailed resources.