How to: Drive in Rain and Floods – Part Two

If you are living in an area that is affected by severe or flash floods, it is important that you know what to do. Last week we looked at the basics of driving in the rain safely; this week our attention turns to that moment when you are late for work, an appointment, the school run, and you encounter a giant puddle. Or is it a flood? Here’s what to do.

If the puddle/ flood doesn’t cover the whole road, it’s simple: don’t attempt to go through it, but wait until the oncoming traffic is clear or waiting, and go around it. You are safe, your car is safe, the traffic just moves a little slower. Easy.

If the water covers the whole road, avoid it if possible. The first thing you need to be aware of are hazards under the surface of the water (e.g. kerbs, manhole covers) and the possible depth of the water.

1. Slow to a stop as soon as you see the water so that you can assess the situation. Pop your hazards on and see if you can assess the depth of the water: are other vehicles driving through successfully? Are there visible markers (e.g. kerbs) that indicate how deep the water is? If not, you could get out and try to gauge the depth using a stick, or by walking into the flood (if you have wellies). Don’t attempt to drive through standing water that is more than 10cm deep, or of a depth that will cover your exhaust pipe.
2. Once you know roughly how deep the water is, look at other factors: is the water running fast? Your vehicle can be swept away in just 30 centimetres of running water; if in doubt, don’t take the risk.
3. If you determine that you can safely go through the flood, ensure that one vehicle goes at a time; wait for the oncoming traffic to wait or clear and drive, as slowly as you can, through the centre of the road. If you drive slowly and steadily, you will avoid making a bow wave.
4. Once you are through the flood, test your brakes to ensure that they are working.
5. Don’t stop in the middle of a flood in case you are unable to restart. If you break down, particularly in running water, don’t attempt to get out; remain in the vehicle and call for assistance.

When it comes to driving and water, you can’t be too cautious. Just one eggcup of water can ruin your engine, not to mention the risk to your safety and that of your passengers.

If you do drive through water and are worried about your vehicle, seek professional advice from the nearest garage immediately. For more advice and information, follow Trust A Garage on Twitter or Facebook.