The problem with flooding is said to set to increase in the UK with the onset of global warming and as the UK is already known for its rain and floods, it’s a good idea for drivers to know how to handle themselves in a flood situation.

Prevention is obviously better than a cure and in the case of flooding this means watching the weather forecasts before you set out on a journey, moving your car to a place of safety on high ground if you know that you are in a flood risk area or just avoiding flood prone areas in bad weather.

If, for whatever reason, you are forced to drive through a flooded area, then there are a few simple but life saving do’s and don’ts which need attention.

Firstly, stay calm. Do not attempt to drive through water that is more than about 30 centimetres deep, up to the centre of your wheels, as this could lead to your engine getting soaked and seizing. If water is sucked into the engine through the air intake, it will stall, which can cause severe damage that will require the engine to be stripped down in order to get you on the road again.

Motor insurance providers won’t pay out your claim if you have allowed your car to become damaged in a flood by driving recklessly, so be careful. Speak to your car insurance providers about your rights with regard to damage caused by floods.

Do not attempt to race through the flooded area either. Just 30 centimetres of fast-moving water could wash your car off the road, while hitting a flooded area of road at speed could see you and your vehicle coming to a swift and nasty stop. If you do have to negotiate a flooded area, then drive slowly. This will ensure that you don’t aquaplane and skid off the road, or create a bow wave which will drench your engine.

Once you are safely through the flooded area, drive carefully as your breaks might have been affected by the water and will then not work as well as expected.

For more information Contact Privilege at:

Jennifer Culley

Head of Press Office

jennifer.culley@rbs.co.uk

RBS Insurance

0845 246 0515

Disclaimer: Please note that Privilege does not control and cannot guarantee the relevance, timeliness, or accuracy of the article above.