Florida Driver Education
Driving Safe on Florida Roads
As Florida gets pounded by storms this summer it's important to know what to do if you are driving and come upon standing water. Driving through water can create a variety of hazards that can be dangerous to you and your car.
First slow your car down as you approach deep water. This applies to anything deeper than your average puddle. If you drive through deep water you can easily begin to hydroplane, which means your car is no longer in contact with the road. The result is you are skidding out of control. It is also very possible that there will debris in the water that will damage your car.
If you can't tell how deep water is do not drive through it. The saying is "turn around don't drown". An average car can be washed away in 12-inches of water. Make every attempt to go around deep water or turn around. If you have to drive through water, drive slowly at a steady speed - don't stop.
Driving in deep water may cause you car to stall. If you cannot restart your car you should immediately get out and go to higher ground. As you drive you car out of water always depress your brakes a few times. This will dry out your brakes so they work properly.
When it's raining or the roads are wet slow down. It will take longer for you and other drivers to stop.