The recent flooding of Highway 99 south of Elk Grove over the New Years weekend reminded us how dangerous severe weather can be, even if the weather seems to be clearing. The consistent rain from Friday and most of Saturday caused the Consumes River to breach several levees surrounding the highway which led to several cars being stranded underwater and at least one fatality. According to the fire captain with the Cosumnes Fire Department, Chris Schamber, “dozens upon dozens” of people had to be rescued in the area over the weekend and called for people to stay home.
Staying Safe in A Flash Flood
Driving during a flash flood can be an extremely dangerous situation. Flash floods are sudden and can catch drivers off guard, leaving them stranded in their vehicles or causing accidents. If you find yourself driving during a flash flood, it is important to take the following precautions to stay safe:
Avoid Driving Through Floodwaters
It is never a good idea to drive through floodwaters. The water may be deeper than it appears and can cause your car to lose traction and float away. If you can’t see the road or the depth of the water, it is best to turn around and find an alternate route.
Follow Detour Signs
If there are detour signs in place, follow them. These signs are put in place for a reason and are meant to guide you to a safer route.
Use Caution When Driving On Flooded Roads
If you must drive on a flooded road, use caution, and drive slowly. Flooded roads can be slippery and your visibility may be limited.
Stay In Your Car If It Becomes Stuck
If your car becomes stuck in floodwaters, it is important to stay inside the vehicle. Your car provides some protection from the floodwaters and is the safest place to be.
Call For Help
If your car becomes stuck and you are unable to drive it out, call for help. Let someone know your location and that you are stuck. Getting help quickly is important if the water is rising quickly, a foot of water can float many small vehicles while two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-up trucks.
Stay Calm
It is important to stay calm in a situation like this. Panic can lead to bad decision making and can make the situation worse. Take deep breaths and try to stay as calm as possible.
Your Car Was Damaged In A Flood. What Next?
If your car has been damaged in a flood, here are some tips for filing an insurance claim.
Safety First
If your car is in a flood zone, do not attempt to start it or drive it until it has been inspected by a mechanic. Water can cause serious damage to a car’s engine and other systems, and attempting to start the car could make the damage worse.
Document The Damage
Take photos and videos of the damage to your car, including any standing water around it. This will help your insurance company assess the extent of the damage.
Contact Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, call your insurance company to report the flood damage and start the claims process. Be sure to have your policy number and any other relevant information handy.
Follow Your Insurance Company’s Instructions
Your insurance company will likely have specific instructions for you to follow, such as where to take your car for an inspection or how to obtain a rental car. Be sure to follow these instructions to ensure that your claim is processed smoothly.
Keep Records
Keep a record of all communication with your insurance company, including phone calls and emails. It’s also a good idea to keep receipts for any expenses you incur as a result of the flood, such as the cost of a rental car.
Get A Second Opinion
If you disagree with your insurance company’s assessment of the damage to your car, you may want to get a second opinion from a mechanic or another expert. However, be aware that your insurance company may require you to use one of their approved repair shops.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your insurance claim is processed smoothly and that you receive the compensation you need to repair or replace your flood-damaged car.
Final Thoughts
Driving during a flash flood can be an extremely dangerous situation. It is important to be prepared and to take the necessary precautions to stay safe. If you find yourself driving during a flash flood, avoid driving through floodwaters, follow detour signs, and use caution when driving on flooded roads. If your car gets stuck, stay inside the car and call for help. By following these tips, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
If you or someone you know has been injured and needs a personal injury settlement lawyer in Sacramento, California, we are here to help. At Ashley Injury Lawyers, we are committed to skillfully employing our wealth of experience to achieve your claim’s optimal outcome. We understand that having a highly experienced and reputable personal injury trial lawyer in your corner is in the best interest of your injury claim and your ongoing recovery. For further information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 916.419.1111
