08/29/2017
Hurricane Harvey and Survival
Surviving a Deep Water Drive is a topic in; "Safe Driving 4 Seniors: Enjoyment from Better Knowledge and Skills!"
Copyright 2017, The Institute 4 Traffic Safety
Surviving a Deep Water Drive
Water is our friend most of the time, but it can become deadly. Let’s take a few minutes to discuss possible actions before you drive into any standing water. Don't do it! Always avoid driving into water. You never know how deep it is.
Most of the time, standing water upon a roadway is caused by a lengthy downpour of rain. This standing water usually takes some time to become a problem. There are exceptions, such as a dam rupturing or a stream/river overflowing its banks. But, generally, large a water problem develops fairly gradually and should be a predictable situation. If it is avoidable, choose another route. If you must travel through it, and it isn't higher than the bottom of your car, drive slowly. Never drive into moving water. Turn around; don’t risk drowning.
There are two fundamental problems presented to drivers by the incompressible liquid called water. One, previously discussed, is hydroplaning, a condition where the tire becomes separated from pavement because water has caused that tire(s) to rise upon the liquid and off the pavement. All driver control is lost when this problem occurs, and it can be avoided by reducing your speed.
The second problem with water and automobiles is that the liquid may travel into parts of the engine that will disrupt reliabl11e motor performance. For example, water can stop electricity from traveling on its intended path. It can also get inside the engine, create a hydraulic lock, and cause expensive damage by bending internal motor components.
The correct response to roadway water is always to travel slowly when you notice significant water on the roadway. Even shallow water can cause problems. Reduced speed will also help keep water from splashing into problematic motor locations.
Finally, if water is several feet deep, most vehicle motors will stall and will not restart. Then water will begin to enter the passenger compartment. Plan your escape early. Lower at least one window or open the sunroof before entering the water. Doors will typically become difficult or impossible to open. Drowning is a very real health threat unless you escape from your vehicle. Upon exiting the vehicle, avoid being swept downstream by grasping a secure object such as a big tree. It is best to “Turn around, don’t drown.”
