Heavy rains cause floods that cause cars to be swept away by the current and can cause us the odd scare. But what if you find yourself swept away by a flood? What is better, standing still or getting out quickly?
In situations like this, you can’t lose your temper. You should never try to cross a waterway or a flooded road, no matter how much you know the terrain or the road or even if you drive a true SUV. You should know that the water moves at great speed, that it is cloudy and we do not know if there will be any obstacle under the channel. if the water exceeds the axis of the wheelsshould not cross.
In the event that a flood surprises you, the DGT (General Directorate of Traffic) is emphatic in this sense: if the car has been stopped in the middle of the riverbed and begins to be dragged, the best thing to do is go out whatever.
For these cases, the experts define levels of action. In the event that it does not stop raining and we are surprised by a flood of 30-45 centimeters deep, the car can start to get out of control. If it happens to you, this is what you have to do:
- leave as soon as possible vehicle. If you see that the water exceeds the height of the underbody of your vehicle, it is best to leave it as soon as possible.
- In the case of not being able to open the door, leave the vehicle Through the window. It may be that the force of the water prevents you from opening the door, in which case it is best to lower the window and exit through it. If the window doesn’t open either, break the window pane with a sharp object and climb out through it.
- Exit from the side of the vehicle contrary to the current. The impact of the current is always significant, so it is preferable to exit on the opposite side or get on the roof of the vehicle and wait for the most opportune moment.
- Always swim in the direction of the current. You should never swim against the current, but swim in favor of it, going to a safe point such as the shore, a tree or any other place that allows you to get out of the current.
- If the car is heavily submerged, wait for it to fill with water to be able to open the door. An air bubble always forms on the roof of the vehicle. However, it is preferable and less dangerous to climb out the window before the vehicle is completely flooded.
If you get out safe and sound, now it’s time to worry about the car. This is what you have to do when a storm leaves your car flooded.
Source: DGT
