What are the safety precautions for driving through water accumulation?
3 Answers
Precautions for driving through water accumulation: 1. Observe road conditions: You should slow down or stop to observe. As long as the water level reaches two-thirds of the bumper or tire, driving through water poses a certain danger. High speed will increase the actual water depth of the car, causing rainwater to enter the cabin from the engine compartment or chassis. 2. Turn on the wipers in advance: Slow down when entering the water. Before deciding to pass through the waterlogged road, it is very important to turn on the wiper function in advance. Turning on the wipers in advance can ensure relatively clear and good visibility, helping the vehicle pass through the waterlogged road safely. 3. Stabilize the throttle and drive at a constant speed in low gear: When driving on a waterlogged road, you should first ensure that the vehicle has stable and powerful power, so that there is always pressure gas in the exhaust pipe to prevent water from flowing back into the exhaust pipe and causing the engine to stall. 4. Remove moisture from the brake pads: After the car has driven through water, the moisture on the brake pads should be removed in time, especially for cars with drum brakes, otherwise the vehicle will lose braking after driving through water, causing serious danger or accidents. 5. Do not force ignition: If the engine stalls, do not force ignition. If you make a mistake while driving through water due to unfamiliarity with the road conditions, do not force a second ignition once the vehicle stalls.
I've been driving for many years and am particularly cautious about waterlogged sections. First, assess the water depth—it shouldn't exceed half the height of the tires, otherwise water can enter the exhaust and cause the engine to stall. Maintain a slow and steady speed, typically between 10-15 km/h for the safest passage, avoiding sudden acceleration or braking to prevent skidding or loss of control. Turn on fog lights when visibility is poor, and observe the direction of water flow—driving against the current increases the risk of accidents. If the engine stalls, do not attempt to restart it; instead, call for a tow truck, as repair costs can be very high. After passing through, remember to wash the car's undercarriage and check the brake pads, as water residue can cause rust on components. Regular maintenance should include checking the vehicle's ground clearance, and in rainy conditions, increase your following distance to prevent accidents. These habits not only save lives but also reduce repair costs—safety always comes first.
As a new driver who just got my license, I once drove through a puddle in heavy rain and almost stalled, which was terrifying. Since then, I've learned my lesson: I only dare to pass through water if the depth doesn't exceed one-third of the wheel height; otherwise, I take a detour. Slow down to below 20 mph, hold the steering wheel steady, and avoid sharp turns. If encountering deep water, stop and wait, observing how other vehicles pass through. Keep the windows closed to prevent water splashes from affecting visibility. After passing through, immediately find a spot to check if the tire treads are clogged with mud—ignoring small issues can lead to major repairs. When driving with friends, I also remind them to keep their phones charged for emergency calls—a small but crucial detail.
