Let’s be honest, the weather this week isn’t looking too good. Rain, rain, rain is all I see and although that can be a bummer, it is ultimate napping weather. So, if you’ve been feeling extra tired lately – treat yourself to a nap, you deserve it. But, what if you have to go somewhere and you encounter a flooded roadway en route? Well, that’s what we’re here for. This week we are sharing some knowledge on how to successfully make it to your destination when the rain just keeps coming down. Follow along below and let us keep you safe on the road!

Do not drive through standing water on the road or in any parking lots.

It only takes about 12-inches of moving water to sweep a vehicle off the road, and when a road is covered in water that road is prone to collapse. If you attempt to drive through water you can stall your engine with the potential to cause irreparable damage if your try restarting the engine. Seek an alternate route if you come across a flood.

Pay attention to road signs and barricades.

Don’t ignore signs and barricades by flying past them in your vehicle. They are there for a reason, pay attention, slow down and don’t put yourself or others in danger because you ignore a sign.

Take extra precautions:

If you must drive through water and there is no alternate route to take and are forced to drive through standing water follow these precautionary tips below

• Drive slowly and steadily through the water on the road – the depth can be more than you guess, slow down and take your time passing through
• If an electrical or power line has fallen, avoid driving through the water – electrical currents pass through water easily
• Stay alert to items traveling downstream that may trap you if you’re in their path
• Minimize distractions and only use your phone is you are seeking help or reporting an injury
• In the event that your vehicle stalls and your only choice is to restart to get to safety, note that you may cause detrimental damage to your vehicle
• If you’ve passed through water that hit at or above your wheels, test your brakes on a clear patch of road at a low speed. Gently press on the brake pedal to dry them off and ensure they are in proper working condition
• If water is rising and you cannot restart to move to safety, immediately abandon your vehicle and search for higher ground. Try to open your door or roll down the window to exit the vehicle. If you cannot, call 911 or get the attention of any passersby that is able to assist you.