With all the snow we have on the ground now melting, and with rain forecast for later in the week, you can bet Hoosier motorists will be experiencing water covered roadways. The Indiana State Police have listed some safety tips below in case you encounter high water conditions.
- •Always carry a cell phone and charger.
•Pay attention to local media reports and heed warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
•Never drive around barricades at water crossings.
•Be especially careful at night or early morning as it can be difficult to see water and it’s depth across the roadway.
•Reduce your speed in rain and NEVER enter flowing water. Driving through water creates less tire contact with the road surface (hydroplaning) and increases your chance of crashing.
•Driving through water affects your brakes reducing their effectiveness until they dry out.
•If you end up in water, immediately exit your vehicle through a window and climb on top of your car. Call 9-1-1 from there and wait for help to arrive. Ride the top like a boat, as vehicles will often float for several minutes.
•Be aware that road erosion can occur anytime there is running or standing water on a roadway.
•Remember it only takes six inches of water to reach the bottoms of most car doors and one foot of water to float most vehicles.
If you find yourself stranded in water, act fast. Get yourself and everyone in your vehicle out of their seatbelt and out a window onto the roof of the car. Make sure you’re a survivor, NOT a victim.
