What is the Correct Procedure When Your Car Gets Flooded During Heavy Rain?
3 Answers
The correct procedure when your car gets flooded during heavy rain is: 1. If the water level has submerged the exhaust pipe but does not exceed half of the tire height while the car is parked, you can start the car and drive to a 4S shop to remove and air-dry the soaked interior; 2. If the water level exceeds half of the tire height, do not start the car to avoid damage to electronic components due to water ingress; 3. Contact your insurance company to file a claim. While waiting for rescue, disconnect the battery terminals to cut off power, then shift to neutral; 4. Take photos of the car, ensuring the license plate is visible. If possible, push the car to a relatively safe area to await rescue.
When your car is submerged in heavy rain, I believe the correct approach is to prioritize personal safety. If the vehicle is still moving, immediately turn off the engine and stop. Water levels can rise rapidly, so don't hesitate. Quickly unbuckle your seatbelt, open the door or break the window to escape, and move to higher ground—never get trapped inside the car. Take action as soon as the water reaches halfway up the tires. After escaping, do not attempt to restart the engine, as water entering it can cause severe damage. It's best to find shelter from the rain, wait, and call for rescue or contact your insurance company for towing assistance. Always check weather forecasts before driving, avoid going out in heavy rain, or stick to main roads to steer clear of flooded areas. A friend of mine once mishandled a flooding situation, resulting in tens of thousands in repair costs—it's never worth the risk.
During heavy rainstorms, if your car gets flooded, don't rush to deal with the vehicle—safety escape is the top priority. I believe it's essential to immediately turn off the engine, stop the car, and decisively leave the vehicle. After escaping, avoid restarting the engine or turning on electrical devices, as water can cause short circuits and lead to more severe damage. Find a safe place to wait for a tow truck or assistance. Once towed to a repair shop, have a technician inspect the engine, transmission, and electrical systems to prevent subsequent failures. For prevention, when driving in the rain, pay attention to road water accumulation—if the water depth exceeds the wheel height, don't force your way through. Keep your phone and emergency tools in the car for such situations. Also, learn some self-rescue techniques, like carrying a safety hammer to break windows, which could save your life in critical moments.
