How to Drive on Submerged Bridge Sections?
3 Answers
When passing through submerged roads or bridges, you should stop to assess the water conditions. Proceed slowly only when there is a dedicated guide leading the way in front of the vehicle. Do not blindly enter submerged road surfaces. Flowing river water exerts a certain lateral impact force on passing vehicles, and improper handling may cause the vehicle to overturn. Drive at a low speed and in a low gear, maintaining steady and consistent speed. Avoid driving too fast in water. Aim for continuous and stable passage, avoiding any stops in the water. Regardless of the situation, the driver should focus entirely on operating the vehicle, looking straight ahead and keeping eyes on the road in front, without glancing around.
When driving across a flooded bridge, I believe the top priority is ensuring safety. First, I would slow down to the minimum speed and observe the water depth and flow rate. If there are pedestrians or tools nearby, use a stick to probe the water depth; if no tools are available, check roadside signs or estimate by the wheel’s half-height. Engage first or second gear, maintain steady throttle, but avoid sudden acceleration, as the wave impact could allow water to enter the exhaust pipe and cause stalling. Turn off the AC fan while crossing to prevent electrical short circuits from water exposure. Additionally, wet roads increase braking distance, so maintain ample space from the vehicle ahead. If the water exceeds wheel height or feels dangerous, immediately park on nearby higher ground or take a detour. Never treat flooded sections lightly—better late than risking it. After rain, bridges often have standing water, so novice drivers should check road conditions before heading out.
When encountering a flooded bridge while driving, I've been through it a few times, so I'm quite cautious. Every time I see water ahead, I slow down to a low speed and approach slowly, then stop to check reference points for depth. For example, I look at roadside rocks or branches' waterlines to roughly gauge the depth. I shift to a low gear and drive at a steady speed, keeping the steering wheel steady and avoiding sudden movements. I don't shift gears when hit by water flow. If the car stalls, I don't rush to restart it to prevent water from entering the engine and causing damage. Afterwards, I remember to wash the car's undercarriage to prevent rust. Experience tells me that carrying a water-measuring stick or using real-time road conditions on a navigation app helps with decision-making. Driving slowly ensures safety and protects the suspension system from water damage.
