What should be paid attention to when driving on waterlogged roads?
3 Answers
Drive at a low speed when passing through flooded sections. The following are precautions for passing through flooded road sections: 1. Check before entering: Before entering the water, someone must go into the water to investigate and determine the water depth, road width, water flow speed, the extent of damage to the road caused by water, and whether the water level is rising or falling. Based on these investigations, confirm whether the conditions are suitable for the vehicle to pass. If the conditions for safe passage are not met, do not risk entering the water. 2. Take protective measures: When it is confirmed that passage is possible, take necessary protective measures for the vehicle, such as closing the shutters, raising the position of the battery, applying necessary waterproofing to the electrical system, and trying to elevate the exhaust pipe outlet. 3. Warn other vehicles: If conditions permit, set up guide markers in the water to direct vehicles through.
I've been driving for over 20 years and encountered many waterlogged road conditions. The key is controlling speed and driving cautiously. Wheels easily skid in water, and once they do, you lose control. So I always drive slowly, never exceeding 40 km/h. Press the accelerator gently, avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking, and use lower gears for stability. Estimate the water depth—get out and measure it with a stick if needed. Don't force your way through if the water reaches halfway up the wheels, as water entering the engine could mean major repairs. I also make it a habit to turn on headlights for better visibility and speed up the wipers to clear water stains on the windshield. Maintain double the usual distance from other vehicles to avoid splashes blocking your view in case of an incident. If the road is too bad, detouring or stopping to wait is the safest option—don't risk rushing, as life is more important than time.
As a driver who often transports family members, flooded roads during the rainy season always make me nervous. The primary rule is to slow down, keeping the speed around 30 km/h to avoid hydroplaning-induced rollovers or rear-end collisions. I always check the water depth—if it's too high, I stop and wait for the water level to drop a bit, as forcing through could allow water to enter and damage the electrical system. At the same time, I turn on the hazard lights or fog lights to alert vehicles behind me and maintain a greater distance to prevent water spray from obscuring visibility. Tire condition is also crucial—ensure proper air pressure for strong grip. Stay calm and don’t rush; safety comes first. If road conditions worsen, pull over, turn on the hazard lights, and take a break—don’t push your luck and endanger yourself or others. This approach has helped me avoid many accidents—essential knowledge for everyday driving.
