For the last 3 months the country has endured one of the worst winter seasons on record. It seemed that the entire country was pounded with snow, ice and sleet and as a 'people' we crawled to cross the February finish line with hopes that spring was soon to follow.
Now it seems that flooding threats have replaced the previous problematic precipitation challenges which prompt me to offer specific advice about what to do if you are in a dangerous flooding or high water situation.
Today's roadways (in Houston and elsewhere) are a labyrinth of under and over passes that criss-cross a city and may not have been designed with the forethought required to take into consideration the occasional deluge that may lead to rising or high water and flooding.
Flood waters have the capability of sweeping a several ton car into a current and carrying it for long distances - causing the vehicle to take on water or even sink with time and endangering the lives of the driver and passenger (s). It is best to consider the following information well in advance of mounting rising waters.
Experts advise that if you come to a pool of standing water check to see if it has reached the height of or surpassed the level of a curb. If so, then back up (if you can safely), and find an alternate route or simply wait at a safe distance away for the water to subside.
Driving into high waters is not only risky for all in the vehicle but, additionally, the water may cause damage to the electrical and other systems. Too, water damage is often extensive and costly to repair.
The fact is that an automobile may begin to float in only 2 feet of water - and a lack of prudence may lead to you becoming the main character in a dramatic rescue video.
Never attempt to drive through standing water.
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston truck accident lawyer and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping personal injury victims seek civil justice. If you would like to speak with a Houston accident lawyer call the Baumgartner firm.
