Being Safe: Driving On Flooded Roads
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A downpour or long periods of rain can cause roads to have higher levels of water than is normal. The levels rise as the drains on the road are unable to keep up with the amount of water.
The depth of the flooded road can be difficult to assess from the drivers seat, and if you do decide to drive through it is important to use the correct techniques to avoid your vehicle becoming flooded and leaving you stranded in the middle of the water.
When assessing the depth of the flooded road try and use roadside markers like kerbstones, or sign poles to help you gauge its depth. If however, you are at all unsure about how deep the water is then it is best to wait for another driver to attempt to pass through it first. The consequences of a flooded car can be very expensive to repair so it is far better to wait and see how high the water comes up on another vehicle, than take the risk with your own car.
If you decide the water is at a safe depth, such as a few centimetres, there are still some things to consider. You will need to drive slowly through the water. A high rate of speed could create a hydroplane situation, causing a skid, and control of the vehicle could be lost. A hydroplane is when the wheels lose contact with the road, and skim over the water.
Crossing through deep water has the potential to cause considerable damage to your car's engine, especially if water enters the air intake and goes on into the cylinders. If this happens, the engine will normally stop instantly and not restart, and you will be left with a very expensive repair bill. Its important to note that the height of the air intake can vary from car to car, although a good guide is not to cross through water that is deeper than the level of your car lights.
If the water level is safe enough to cross you should stay in first gear as you pass through, keep the revs high and the speed low, by slipping the clutch in a car with a manual gear box or left foot braking whilst applying the throttle in an automatic.
Aim to drive through on the crown of the road as the water will be shallowest at this point, and be wary of drivers coming the other way who could be travelling too fast, as they could easily swamp your vehicle with their bow wave.
After you make it through the rainwater you will need to pull over to allow your brakes to dry. You can also depress your brakes to get them drier quicker. Make sure you check the brakes before resuming normal speeds.
Driving through a heavily flooded road requires considerable caution and adequate preparation, however if you are at all unsure about your chances of crossing through successfully, then it is best to turn around and find an alternative route.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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