Locally, we have received large amounts of rain which have caused roadways to flood and area creeks and rivers to overflow. The flooded and wet roadways can cause dangerous and unforeseen driving conditions for the motoring public. Puddles and standing water are often deeper than they appear. Experts advise that as little as six inches of moving water can displace a vehicle. Deeper water can cause your car to stall leaving you stranded in rising flood water. The state police advise drivers to never cross flooded roads. Hydroplaning may also occur when driving on wet roads. The term hydroplaning is commonly used to refer to the skidding or sliding of a car’s tires across a wet surface. This can happen with as little as a ¼ inch of water on the road. This can be avoided if you reduce your speed and watch for areas of standing water. Some ways to reduce the risk of hydroplaning include: Properly inflating tires, Having good tire tread, Reducing your speed, Avoiding puddles and standing water, Avoiding stopping quickly, Turning off your cruise control, and Trying to drive in the tire tracks of the car in front of you.
