Driving during a Flood is not ideal

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Why You Should Avoid Driving During a Flood

During a storm in Pacific Palisades, it can be frustrating to be stuck inside your home, particularly if it has been damaged. However, it is important that you keep your safety in mind. Driving on a flooded street can be incredibly dangerous and the risks far outweigh any possible benefits. The following are just a few reasons why you should avoid driving during a flood.

1. You Can’t See What’s In Front of You

Some flooded roads might look safe to drive on, but that doesn’t mean that they are. In some cases, the water might be much deeper than it appears. Potholes and road damage are often hiding underneath those waters. There might also be debris that could affect your ability to drive safely.

2. You Could Lose Control

Even experienced drivers cannot predict everything that may happen on the road. Just a few inches of water can cause you to hydroplane and lose control of your car. If the flooded street has more water than this, then you are even more likely to have trouble. For most cars, a foot of water is enough to cause it to float. Two feet is enough to do the same to larger vehicles. If this happens, you are likely to be carried away with the water.

3. You Might Damage Your Vehicle

If the safety risk is not enough to deter you, then perhaps the potential damage to your car is. Your vehicle is not made to operate in water, so it does not have anything to protect its components in this situation. If water from the flooded street gets inside the engine, your car will no longer be able to function and you will have a pricey repair bill on your hands.

One of the best travel tips for driving in a flood is to avoid it. However, if you must drive, be sure to do so only on streets that are confirmed to be safe for travel. If the storm has caused damage to your house, a water damage restoration company can perform cleanup and repairs.

Give us a call for your inspection today! SERVPRO MALIBU HERE TO HELP! 310-456-2135