| By :
Jason Epstein
After working on Seattle auto accident settlements for several years as a Bellevue injury attorney I have seen what disasters can happen on wet or flooded roads. Heavy rains, wind and unusual cold are all characteristics of La Nina, the weather pattern that has been thrashing Washington with stormy weather this winter. The heavy levels of rainfall and snow create a dangerous situation as the water levels in local creeks and rivers rise and flood. Washington floods can cause serious damage to houses, businesses and property, but can also be extremely dangerous to vehicles on the road as they attempt to forge the high waters. Even when the water over the roadway appears shallow it can be extremely dangerous for a vehicle for the following reasons: - One inch of water can easily cause you to lose control of your vehicle - As little as 6 inches of water can push your vehicle off the roadway - 2 feet of water can float your vehicle- sending it into a raging stream or river - The waters depth may be deceiving- water can cause the road to wash out making the water much deeper than it appears- or if the road is still intact the weight of your vehicle may be the pressure it needs to cause the wash out With all of these dangers in mind it is important that we all take precautions before hitting the roads in heavy rain falls. Here are some tips to help keep you and your vehicle safe during a flood. 1. Watch the Weather Reports: I know in Washington we always joke about how untrustworthy the weather reports are, but in the case of flooding they are extremely useful. All news channels will run updated information on which rivers are flooding, road closures and evacuation routes and this information is easily accessible by simply watching the news, or via the news channels websites. King 5, Komo 4, Kiro 7. 2. Take Alternate Routes: If you live in an area that floods regularly avoid the flood zones and take an alternate route. 3. Don't Ignore Road Closures: if there are barriers, blockades or road closure signs do not drive around them! No matter what size your vehicle is or how safe a driver you are the signs are there for a reason and it is not safe to continue down that path. 4. Abandon Ship: if your car stalls in the flood waters do not stay with your vehicle- leave the car and move to higher ground immediately. Cars can easily be swept away and rolled in flood waters and many fatalities occur when people decide to stay with their vehicle. 5. Be Wary at Night: if you are driving at night you must be even more cautious as seeing the high water levels and judging their depth will be extremely difficult. 6. Avoid the Streets: if at all possible, avoid driving all together. So, even when the water over the roadway appears shallow it can be extremely dangerous for a vehicle. Take the previous steps to help prevent any unfortunate accidents.
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