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Road safety in flash flood conditions

Nov 10, 2016 RoadSafety, AA,


The Automobile Association has sent a release to the media reminding drivers in SA how best to manage the flash floods hitting parts of the country.


The organisation urged all motorists caught up in floods to follow some basic rules to negotiate the safest route out of these situations and said the most important factor in dealing with floods was trying to avoid them in the first place.
 
The tips are seemingly obvious but are worth a reminder, particularly if you have a fleet or workshop. First prize is of course to turn around and drive away from the flooded area. If this isn’t possible however, do not attempt to go through water if it is deeper than 20 centimetres as the risk of mechanical and electrical damage is high.

Some other tips to negotiate flooded roads include:
 

  • Obey authorities and emergency personnel who tell you to avoid driving on a specific road. If a road has been closed, obey the closure, and drive the alternative route,
  • Do not try and cross a body of water, even if you think you can make it, as the water may be deeper than you think, and the road may have eroded since you last used it,
  • If there is a risk you will be caught in a flood, pull off the road and look for higher ground,
  • If you do pull off, make sure you leave enough space for emergency vehicles to pass you,
  • If you have no alternative but to drive through a body of water, drive as slow as possible in first gear with both hands on the steering wheel. This will give your car the necessary traction to move forward. Driving fast may result in aquaplaning,
  • Ensure you are as visible as possible. Switch on your headlights,
  • If your car is being surrounded by water, unfasten your seatbelt (and those of any children with you), unlock your doors, and open your windows.  If water starts entering through the windows, get out of the vehicle and wade to the nearest point of safer higher ground. Remember, you are more important than your car,
  • If your car is suddenly submerged and your windows aren’t already open, try and break a window and swim to the nearest point of safety,
  • If you are caught in a flood, be patient and remain calm. The AA, and emergency services will get you but there may be delays as they have to negotiate the same hazards,
  • Be especially cautious at night, or when visibility is low, as it may be harder to see floods ahead


If you do make it through the water, check your car for any damage, and feather the brakes to dry them. This is a perfect time for aftermarket businesses to offer their customers an assessment service, to build loyalty.

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