Follow these tips to keep your car safe in flood situations
While the monsoon season brings beauty and greenery, it also comes with concerns. Heavy rains can lead to flash floods, especially in cities near water bodies like rivers and lakes. Recently, Delhi NCR experienced such a situation, with some areas seeing cars completely submerged.
Avoid traveling during floods if possible. However, if you find yourself on the road during a flash flood, follow these seven tips to keep yourself and your car safe:
Ensure Your Personal Safety First!
Prioritize your own safety over saving your car. If the situation is too dangerous, exit the car and find a dry spot at a higher elevation. If there is no safe area nearby, get on top of the car. Water entering the car’s electronics can cause window and door malfunctions. Leave the vehicle before the water reaches that level or wait for the water to recede before attempting to get out. Pay attention to your car’s condition and any warnings on the instrument cluster.
Disconnect Batteries
If a flash flood is expected in your area, disconnect your car’s battery to protect the electrical system from damage or short circuits.
Park At An Elevated Area
If you live in a flood-prone area, find an elevated spot to park your car, even if it’s farther from your house. This is especially crucial for hatchbacks and sedans with lower ground clearance.
Avoid Driving Through The Most Flooded Part
If you encounter a waterlogged or flooded area on your route, avoid driving through it. Look for a path with less water and drive slowly. Watch out for submerged obstacles and be aware of hidden dangers like potholes or open manholes.
Stop If The Water Level Is Higher Than The Tyre
If the water level is deeper than half of the tyre, stop the car. Water can enter the exhaust system and cause severe damage. Assess the situation and choose a higher part of the road or wait until the water level drops before proceeding.
Drive Slow, Rev Hard
If you must drive through a waterlogged area, maintain a steady speed at higher RPMs in a lower gear to prevent stalling. Avoid driving fast, as it increases the risk of water entering the engine bay or electrical system. If your car has an AMT, torque converter, or dual-clutch automatic transmission, switch to manual mode for better control.
In Case If Car Stalls, DO NOT START IT!
If your car stalls in the middle of a flooded road with water above half the height of the tyre, do not attempt to start it. Water may have already entered the mechanical or electrical parts. Exit the car and wait for the water to recede. If your car gets submerged, avoid starting it and seek assistance from an authorized service center.
Despite these precautions, your car may still sustain significant damage. Keep in mind that insurance plans usually don’t cover flood-related damage, but some insurance companies offer additional coverage for floods. Consider getting this coverage if you live in a flood-prone area.
Have any additional tips for driving and protecting your car during flash floods? Share your suggestions in the comments section.