Three out of four motorists risk lives driving through floods

Would you risk driving through flood water to avoid re-routing?

Nearly three quarters (74%) of UK motorists say they would. However, experts warn that just one foot of moving water is enough to sweep drivers away…

Driving through floods

Flooding is a huge source of disruption on British roads, especially during the winter months, but experts have warned motorists that floods pose a serious risk to life.

According to the Environment Agency, the most common cause of death during flooding is people driving through flood water.

And yet, just 22% of men and 29% of women say they would find an alternative route when faced with flood water on the roads, an AA survey has indicated.

AA patrol of the year Ben Sheridan warns motorists not to take risks when it comes to flooding on the roads.

He said: “Don’t chance it if the road ahead is flooded. Flood water can be deceptively deep and can hide other hazards in the road which can leave you stranded.”

Deeper than it looks

Driving through flood water could cause serious damage to people’s cars and even lead to loss of life if engine failures leave motorists stranded.

Caroline Douglass, Director of Incident Management and resilience at the Environment Agency, advises the best way to drive through flood water is not to try at all.

She said: “It is concerning that so many drivers are willing to risk their own life and the lives of others by driving through flood water.

“Our message is clear – surface water flooding is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car. Never drive through flood water. Turn around and find another route.”

Warnings come ahead of heavy rain forecasts throughout the UK over the Christmas period.

Check out our top tips for driving in wet weather.