Recent flash floods and strong storms reminded me that there are special circumstances to consider when driving in rainy conditions and/or through standing water.
Among the more obvious problems are reduced visibility and a tendency to hydroplane in inclement weather. Too, it is common for water to puddle on the sides of the roads so it is better to drive in the center lanes when it rains.
Should you come to standing water on a roadway the first choice should be to turn around and find an alternate route to reach your destination. If that is not possible then start across the waterlogged road slowly.
As you continue if the water reaches the bottom of the doors then back up and out of the water. Streaming water is very dangerous and powerful enough to sweep a car away. If you drive through it too quickly it can also cause the water to wave and further damage your vehicle.
Further, in Houston, several underpasses are misleadingly deep and can put you and your passengers at great risk if you attempt to drive through them.
For instance, should you drive too quickly through standing water - the air intake located at the front of the engine bay may have water sucked into the engine and cause serious damage.
Experts state that it only takes just an egg cupful of water in the combustion chamber to wreck the engine. Driving through standing water that is too deep can also damage electrical parts, brakes and body work and has recently lead to a few drowning deaths in Houston.
Perhaps the best advice to be given is to try to avoid being on the roads in inclement weather and do not drive in deep water.
To speak with a Houston 18-wheeler accident attorney call the Baumgartner Law Firm.
