20 October 2023 , 09:53
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As the nation struggles to cope with the aftermath of Storm Babet and motorists battle to get on with their journeys on flooding roads, motoring experts are giving out advice for drivers who might face challenges on their commutes.
One of the wettest October spells on record will be giving some areas more than a month's rain in a couple of days, and that will make for some perilous travel conditions right up until Sunday morning.
Driving through standing water on the roads is best avoided, but if you absolutely have to continue, there are some steps you can take to minimise the risk to yourself and other road users.
(Getty Images/iStockphoto)Louise Thomas, a car insurance expert at Confused.com advises: "Flooding is set to have a huge impact on travel, which could cause issues for many drivers.
"Our research showed that more than one in four drivers have had their vehicle skid on the road as a result of bad weather.
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“When the road conditions are bad, the most sensible option is to not travel. But this can't always be avoided, especially if other transport services are also affected.
"If driving, motorists should slow down and put the car into a low gear when approaching deep water, ensure there's plenty of room for larger stopping distances and use headlights for visibility to others on the road.
“It's important that all road users take extra care when driving in extreme weather conditions."
During the next few days, many areas will be affected by floods, with severe weather warnings issued by the Met Office.
While many people will be taking steps to protect their properties, drivers also need to be extra careful, because flooded roads can present severe risks.
(Getty Images)Dominic Wyatt, an expert at International Drivers Association, said: "Flooded roads can hide a multitude of hazards - potholes, debris, downed power lines, not to mention the risk of disease from contaminated water.
"Recognising these risks is the first key step in staying safe when driving through floods."
Dominic has issued a series of dos and don'ts for drivers who have to set out on journeys over the difficult next few days.
Dos:
- Stay Informed: Listen to local news or use mobile apps to know about weather forecasts or traffic updates.
- Safety: Keep a first aid emergency kit in your cars.
- Plan Ahead: If possible, avoid flood-prone routes. Consider alternative routes or even, delay your travel if it’s not urgent.
- Know Your Vehicle: Understanding how your vehicle responds to water can greatly improve your decision-making in a flood scenario.
- Be Observant: A watchful eye on road conditions and other drivers can help mitigate risks.
- Drive Slowly: Sudden braking or acceleration can lead to skidding or veering off the road.
Don’ts:
- Avoid Wide Bodies of Water: If you see water spreading across the road, re-route or wait for the water to recede.
- Never Guess the Depth: It’s easy to misjudge the depth of floodwater. The IDA suggests that if water reaches the centre of your car wheels or more, it is best to turn around.
- Don’t Ignore Barricades: They are for your safety.
- Avoid Flooded Routes at Night: Poorly-lit roads can hide the real depth of the water.
- Never Drive Through Moving Water: Even shallow rapids can sweep a car off the roadside.