Heavy downpours and prolonged rainfall can lead to blocked drainage systems and ultimately, flooding. Flooding is a serious threat to public safety as it can hit abruptly and cover large areas quickly, causing disruption to travel. Driving through flood waters is one of the most dangerous things you can do on the road. Therefore, this blog will discuss how to stay safe during a flood and tips for driving on a flooded roadway if absolutely necessary.
Staying Safe During a Flood
The first step to staying safe during a flood is to stay informed with the latest information. Keep an eye on local weather reports and heed any flood warnings or evacuation orders from local authorities. If you live in a flood-prone area, it’s smart to invest in an NOAA weather radio and sign up for text alerts to stay up to date on weather conditions.
It’s important to avoid driving on flooded roads if possible. However, if flooding occurs while you’re driving or if there is an emergency and you must drive, proceed with extreme caution and consider the following tips.
Tips for Driving on a Flooded Roadway
- Avoid areas with excess water: If you encounter standing water on the road, it’s best to turn around and find another route. If that’s not an option, note the water’s depth as other cars drive through and determine if your vehicle can make it through safely. NEVER drive through water near fallen power lines.
- Drive extremely slow: If you must drive through flooded areas, do so slowly and cautiously. Driving too fast through standing water can cause your car to hydroplane, lose traction, or stall. Avoid flooding your engine by maintaining a speed under five miles per hour.
- Avoid moving water: Moving water is especially dangerous. Do not attempt to drive through a road with moving water even if it appears shallow. Just six inches of moving water is enough to sweep a car off the road.
- Watch for debris: Floodwaters can carry debris that may cause serious damage to your car or cause an accident. Keep an eye out for floating objects, fallen trees, and other hazards on the road.
If driving in flooded areas is avoidable, don’t take the risk. These tips may decrease the chance of an accident or breakdown occurring, but driving through standing water is never a safe option.
Insurance Coverage To Protect from Flood Damage
Staying safe on the road during a flood is crucial. It’s equally important to protect yourself financially from the risks of flood damage. Here are some essential insurance coverages to consider.
Comprehensive insurance covers damages to your car from events other than collisions, including floods. Spring flooding can cause dangerous driving conditions no matter where you live, so comprehensive insurance is a must-have.
Standard auto policies don’t cover flood damage. Therefore, it’s essential to purchase flood insurance to protect your car and fleet of vehicles from potential damage.
Lastly, gap insurance can help cover the difference between what you owe on your vehicle’s loan and the actual cash value of your vehicle, in the case it gets totaled.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
When it comes to protecting your fleet of vehicles with flood insurance, it’s something you wish to never have to use. However, life is unpredictable and events like flooding are out of our control. That’s why it’s essential to protect yourself ahead of time and save yourself a massive headache in the case of an accident. At RRL Insurance, we understand the intricacies of the industry and can help you get comprehensive coverage that fits your needs for the best price. For more information on how we can protect you, please contact us today to set up an appointment.
