It’s hard to believe with the recent snowfall, but the temperatures in Chicago are going to start warming up in the next couple of weeks – meaning melting snow and April showers. As nice as it will be when spring is sprung, the risk for flooding increases. Flooding is dangerous for everyone, and are hard to judge while driving in one. If you can avoid driving in a flood, you should; however, if you can’t avoid it, follow these precautions:
- Do not ignore barricades – they are there for a reason.
- Do not drive through standing water – it can cause severe damage to the engine, and your car could be swept off the road.
- Try to estimate the water’s depth by observing other cars driving through it.
- Test your brakes on a clear patch of road, and dry them if necessary (press gently on the brake with your left foot while maintaining your speed with your right foot).
- Drive slowly and in control.
- Do not drive in water where power lines have fallen.
- Watch for items traveling downstream that could harm you.
- Stay off your phone – focus 100% of your attention on the road.
- If you are trapped, abandon your vehicle and get to safety – don’t risk your life for the sake of your car.
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