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If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident that was not your fault, we can certainly do our best to assist you, hopefully point you in the direction to get a hire car for the duration of your repairs or settlement, whatever it eventuates to be.

Not at fault hire car companies attempt to go about recovering the costs of the hire car from the at fault drivers’ insurance company, so in order to get that arranged there is normally a bit of a brief validation process we go through here online first at CarHire.Claims

Takes about 5 – 10 minutes, go through your details, the other parties details, take down a bit of a brief accident description as well, from there the credit hire company will follow up directly to the at fault drivers insurance company, just to make sure they are accepting liability for the accident, and if they are, provide you with the car, and recover the costs from them, easy as that…

Driving in Heavy Rain and Floods Tips and Advice For Australians

by | 23 Sep 2024 | Musings

You’re cruising down an Australian highway, the radio playing your favorite tunes, when suddenly the sky darkens and rain starts pelting your windshield. What was once a pleasant drive has now become a challenging and potentially dangerous situation. As an Aussie driver, you know that our weather can be as unpredictable as a kangaroo’s hop. But are you truly prepared for the risks that come with driving in bad weather? In this comprehensive guide, I’ll equip you with the driving in heavy rain and floods tips and advice for Australians knowledge to navigate these treacherous conditions safely, ensuring you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Introduction to Driving in Heavy Rain and Floods: Understanding the Risks

Driving in the rain might seem like a common occurrence, but it’s far from harmless. In fact, wet weather significantly increases the risks on our roads. According to a study cited by Murphy’s Law, the risk of a fatal accident increases by 34% when it is raining. This startling statistic underscores the importance of understanding and preparing for the challenges of wet weather driving.

When rain starts to fall, it doesn’t just make the roads slippery. It can reduce visibility, affect your vehicle’s handling, and create hazardous conditions like hydroplaning. In extreme cases, heavy rainfall can lead to flooding, which presents an entirely new set of dangers for drivers.

The risks associated with driving in rain and floods are multifaceted. Reduced traction can lead to longer stopping distances and increased chances of skidding. Poor visibility not only affects your ability to see the road ahead but also makes it harder for other drivers to see you. Standing water on roads can cause your tyres to lose contact with the surface, leading to a loss of control.

In flood conditions, the dangers escalate dramatically. Floodwaters can be deceptively deep and fast-moving, capable of sweeping away vehicles with alarming ease. Even shallow water can cause severe damage to your car’s engine and electrical systems.

Understanding these risks is the first step in preparing yourself for safe driving in wet conditions. By recognizing the potential hazards, you can take proactive steps to mitigate them and make informed decisions about when it’s safe to drive and when it’s better to stay put. In the following sections, I’ll delve deeper into specific strategies and tips to help you navigate these challenging conditions with confidence and safety.

Before You Head Out: Preparing for Wet Weather Driving

When rain on car becomes a reality, preparation is key to ensuring a safe journey. Before you even think about hitting the road in wet conditions, there are several crucial steps you should take to prepare both yourself and your vehicle.

Checking the Latest Weather Updates and Advisories

The first step in preparing for wet weather driving is staying informed. Check reliable weather sources for the most up-to-date forecasts and any severe weather warnings. Pay attention to potential flood warnings or alerts about heavy rainfall. Remember, conditions can change rapidly, so it’s wise to check updates right before you leave and during your journey if possible.

Ensuring Your Vehicle is Rain-Ready

Your vehicle is your first line of defense against the elements. Ensuring it’s in top condition for wet weather driving is crucial for your safety.

Tyre Inspection: Pressure and Tread Depth

Start with your tyres. Proper tyre maintenance is essential for safe driving, especially in wet conditions. Check the tyre pressure and ensure it meets the manufacturer’s recommendations. Equally important is the tread depth. Adequate tread depth helps channel water away from under the tyres, reducing the risk of aquaplaning.

Windscreen Wipers: Visibility is Key

Next, inspect your windscreen wipers. Wet weather significantly reduces visibility, and drivers should pull over and wait if visibility is too poor. Ensure your wipers are in good condition and can effectively clear rain from your windscreen. If they’re leaving streaks or not making proper contact with the glass, it’s time for a replacement.

Lights and Indicators: Ensuring They’re Fully Functional

Finally, check all your vehicle’s lights and indicators. In rainy conditions, your lights play a crucial role in both seeing and being seen by other drivers. Test your headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they’re all working correctly. If any bulbs need replacing, do so before you set out.

By taking these preparatory steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of driving in wet conditions. Remember, when there’s rain on car, your vehicle becomes your shelter from the storm. Ensuring it’s in top condition can make all the difference in your safety and comfort on the road.

Critical Driving in Heavy Rain and floods tips and advice for Australians

When faced with rain on the road, it’s crucial to adjust your driving techniques to ensure safety. Here are some essential tips for navigating through heavy rainfall:

Reducing Speed to Match Conditions

One of the most critical adjustments you can make when driving in rain is to reduce your speed. Speeding is the single biggest contributor to fatal road accidents, and driving 5-10km/h below the speed limit is recommended in wet conditions. This reduction in speed gives you more time to react to unexpected situations and reduces the risk of aquaplaning. Remember, the posted speed limit is for ideal conditions, and rain certainly doesn’t qualify as ideal.

The Importance of Turning Your Lights On

Visibility is significantly reduced when there’s water on road, making it crucial to turn on your headlights. This not only helps you see better but also ensures that other drivers can see you. Use your low beams in most situations, as high beams can reflect off the rain and actually reduce visibility.

Increasing Following Distance: Cars vs Heavy Vehicles

When driving in rain, it’s essential to increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front. For cars, double your normal following distance. For heavy vehicles, triple it. This extra space gives you more time to react if the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes or loses control. Remember, wet roads mean longer stopping distances for everyone.

Understanding and Reacting to Aquaplaning

Aquaplaning occurs when your tyres lose contact with the road surface due to a layer of water. If you feel your car starting to aquaplane, don’t panic or brake suddenly. Instead, ease off the accelerator and steer straight until you feel the tyres regain traction. Avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel or brakes, as this can cause you to lose control.

Navigating through Skids: Do’s and Don’ts

If you find yourself in a skid while driving in rain, remember these key points:

  • Do: Steer in the direction you want the car to go
  • Don’t: Slam on the brakes
  • Do: Gently ease off the accelerator
  • Don’t: Overcorrect your steering

It’s also worth noting that using cruise control in wet weather is not recommended as it can prevent fine adjustments to speed and reduce alertness. Always maintain manual control of your vehicle when there’s rain on the road.

By following these driving in heavy rain and floods tips and advice for australians, you’ll be better prepared to handle the challenges of driving in rain. Remember, the key is to stay alert, reduce your speed, and give yourself plenty of space to react to changing conditions.

Special Considerations for Driving in Flood Conditions

When heavy rain turns into flooding, the risks on the road escalate dramatically. It’s crucial to understand the dangers and know how to respond when faced with flood conditions.

The Dangers of Crossing Floodwaters and When to Avoid It

There is water over the road, you stop because the risks are simply too high. Driving through floodwater as shallow as 15cm can be dangerous and may cause your car to lose traction or be pushed off course. This depth of water might seem insignificant, but it can have serious consequences.

The force of even slow-moving water can be powerful enough to cause significant damage to your car and pose a danger to occupants. To put this into perspective, water as shallow as 15cm can knock a person off their feet, and a metre of rain water can wash a car away.

It’s particularly important to note that driving on flooded roads at night is especially dangerous due to the difficulty in gauging the depth of the water. If you can’t clearly see the road surface, it’s best to avoid crossing altogether.

Identifying and Understanding Flood Road Signs

Recognizing and understanding flood road signs is crucial for your safety. Here are some common signs you might encounter:

  • “Road Closed”: This sign is non-negotiable. Never drive past a “Road Closed” sign.
  • “Floodway”: Indicates a section of road prone to flooding. Exercise extreme caution.
  • “Depth Indicators”: These show the depth of water at different points. Remember, even shallow water can be dangerous.
  • “Flood Prone Area”: Warns that the area is susceptible to flooding. Be prepared to turn back.

Always obey these signs. They’re there to protect you and prevent potentially life-threatening situations.

Flood Safety Tips Every Driver Should Know

  1. Turn Around, Don’t Drown: If there is water on the road, you stop because it’s always safer to find an alternative route.
  2. Stay Informed: Keep updated with local weather reports and flood warnings.
  3. Plan Ahead: If flooding is likely, plan your route to avoid flood-prone areas.
  4. Be Prepared to Abandon Your Vehicle: If water starts rising around your car, be ready to leave it and move to higher ground.
  5. Don’t Restart a Flooded Engine: If floodwater has reached the lower level of the vehicle’s doors, do not turn on the engine to avoid severe damage to the engine and electrical systems.
  6. Wait for Help: If you’re stranded, stay with your vehicle unless instructed otherwise by emergency services.
  7. After the Flood: Have your vehicle thoroughly inspected before driving it again, even if it appears undamaged.

Remember, when it comes to flood waters, there’s no such thing as being too cautious. Your safety, and the safety of your passengers, should always be your top priority. If in doubt, always err on the side of caution and avoid crossing flooded roads.

The Legal Implications: Driving Through Flood Water in Australia

When faced with flooded roads, many drivers might be tempted to push through, thinking they can make it to the other side. However, this decision not only puts your life at risk but also carries significant legal implications in Australia.

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand the severity of the situation. More than one-third of Queensland drowning deaths are due to people being trapped in their cars in flood waters. This alarming statistic underscores why Australian authorities take a strict stance on driving through floodwaters.

Different States & Territories of Australia Agree – Floodwater is Dangerous!

In most Australian states and territories, driving through floodwaters is considered a traffic offence. This falls under the broader category of negligent or dangerous driving. If you choose to ignore road closure signs or drive through visibly flooded areas, you could face hefty fines and demerit points on your license.

Moreover, if your actions result in the need for emergency services to rescue you, you might be held liable for the costs associated with the rescue operation. These costs can run into thousands of dollars, adding a significant financial burden to an already dangerous situation.

Insurance is another critical consideration. Many insurance policies have clauses that exclude coverage for damage caused by driving through floodwaters. This means that if your vehicle is damaged or written off due to flood damage, you might find yourself without insurance coverage and facing substantial repair or replacement costs.

It’s also worth noting that if your actions endanger others, such as passengers in your vehicle or rescue personnel, you could face more serious criminal charges. In extreme cases where loss of life occurs, charges could escalate to manslaughter.

The legal stance is clear: it’s always better to turn around and find an alternative route. The potential legal consequences, combined with the risk to your life and the lives of others, make driving through floodwaters a decision that’s simply not worth the risk.

Remember, Australian road laws are designed to protect all road users. By adhering to these laws and following good driving in heavy rain and floods tips and advice during flood conditions, you’re not only protecting yourself but also contributing to the overall safety of your community.

Emergency Situations: What To Do If You’re Stuck or Injured

Despite our best efforts to avoid dangerous situations, emergencies can still occur when driving in heavy rain or flood conditions. If you find yourself isolated or hurt, it’s crucial to know how to respond to ensure your safety and that of your passengers.

When your vehicle becomes trapped in floodwater:

  1. Stay calm: Panic can cloud your judgment and lead to poor decisions.
  2. Turn off the engine: This prevents water from being sucked into the engine, causing irreparable damage.
  3. Call for help: Use your mobile phone to call emergency services (000 in Australia). If you don’t have phone service, use your horn or headlights to attract attention.
  4. Unlock the doors and wind down the windows: Electric systems may fail, so do this while you still can.
  5. Remove your seatbelt and be ready to evacuate: If water starts rising inside the car, you’ll need to exit quickly.
  6. If you must leave the vehicle, do so cautiously: Exit through the windows and move to higher ground. Be aware of strong currents and hidden hazards beneath the water.

If you’re not feeling well after the accident make sure that you:

  1. Assess your injuries: Determine if you can move safely or if it’s better to stay put.
  2. Call for emergency services: Provide clear details about your location and condition.
  3. Apply first aid if possible: Use your vehicle’s first aid kit if you have one.
  4. Stay visible: Turn on your hazard lights and, if safe, set up emergency triangles or flares.
  5. Don’t attempt to move if you suspect spinal injuries: Wait for professional help to arrive.

Remember, your vehicle can be replaced, but your life cannot. If water is rising and you’re in immediate danger, abandon your vehicle and seek higher ground immediately. Always prioritize your safety over material possessions.

After the emergency has passed, seek medical attention even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent due to the shock and adrenaline of the situation.

By staying prepared and knowing the driving in heavy rain and floods tips and advice for australians how to respond in emergency situations, you can significantly increase your chances of a safe outcome when faced with the challenges of driving in severe weather conditions.

Vehicle Maintenance Post-Flood Exposure

After your vehicle has been exposed to floodwaters, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure its safety and longevity. Even if your car appears undamaged, water exposure can lead to hidden issues that may surface later if not addressed promptly.

First and foremost, resist the urge to start your vehicle immediately after flood exposure. Water may have entered critical components, and starting the engine could cause severe damage. Instead, follow these steps:

  1. Document the damage: Take photos and videos of your vehicle for insurance purposes before beginning any cleanup or maintenance.
  2. Remove water and debris: Open all doors, windows, and the trunk to allow air circulation. Remove any water and debris from the interior.
  3. Check fluids: Inspect all fluids (engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid) for signs of water contamination. If you notice a milky appearance or water droplets, the fluid needs to be changed.
  4. Dry electrical components: Use compressed air to dry out electrical connections, fuse boxes, and other exposed electrical parts.
  5. Check the air filter: Replace the air filter if it’s wet or contaminated with debris.
  6. Inspect the brakes: Have your brakes checked for water damage and rust.
  7. Check spark plugs: Remove and inspect spark plugs for signs of water damage.
  8. Lubricate moving parts: Apply lubricant to door hinges, locks, and other moving parts that may have been exposed to water.
  9. Professional inspection: Have a qualified mechanic thoroughly inspect your vehicle, paying special attention to the engine, transmission, fuel system, and electrical components.
  10. Address mold and mildew: Clean and disinfect the interior to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Remember, Even if Your Car Starts and Runs After Flood Exposure, It Doesn’t Mean it’s Safe to Drive.

Hidden damage can lead to mechanical failures or electrical issues down the road. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and have your vehicle professionally inspected and serviced.

If your car has been submerged in deep water, particularly if the water reached the dashboard, it may be considered a total loss by your insurance company. In such cases, it’s often safer and more cost-effective to replace the vehicle rather than attempt repairs.

By taking these maintenance steps after flood exposure, you can potentially save your vehicle from long-term damage and ensure it remains safe to drive. Always prioritize safety over cost when it comes to post-flood vehicle maintenance.

Staying Informed: Resources for Real-Time Weather and Road Conditions

In Australia, driving in heavy rain and floods tips and advice for australians is crucial for safe driving, especially during periods of heavy rain or potential flooding. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help drivers stay up-to-date with real-time information.

  1. Bureau of Meteorology (BOM): The BOM website and mobile app provide comprehensive weather forecasts, radar images, and severe weather warnings. It’s an essential resource for monitoring rainfall and potential flood risks across the country.
  2. State Road Authorities: Each state has its own road authority that provides real-time traffic information and road condition updates:
  • NSW: Live Traffic NSW
  • VIC: VicTraffic
  • QLD: QLDTraffic
  • WA: Main Roads WA
  • SA: Traffic SA
  • TAS: TasAlert
  • NT: Road Report NT
  • ACT: ACT Road Report

These platforms often offer mobile apps for easy access to information on the go.

  1. ABC Emergency: The Australian Broadcasting Corporation provides emergency broadcasting services, including updates on severe weather and road closures.
  2. Local Council Websites: Many local councils offer updates on local road conditions and flood-prone areas within their jurisdiction.
  3. Social Media: Following official accounts of meteorological services, road authorities, and emergency services on platforms like Twitter and Facebook can provide instant updates.
  4. Radio: Local radio stations, particularly ABC local radio, often broadcast real-time weather and traffic updates.
  5. Emergency Services Apps: Apps like Emergency+ can help you stay informed about local emergencies and provide quick access to emergency services if needed.
  6. Flood Information Services: Some states offer specific flood information services, such as the NSW SES Flood Information Service.
  7. Community Alert Systems: Many areas have local alert systems that send SMS or email notifications about severe weather or road closures. Check with your local council to see if this service is available in your area.
  8. Dashcam Communities: Some dashcam apps and communities share real-time road condition information contributed by users.

Before embarking on any journey, especially during adverse weather conditions, it’s wise to check multiple sources for the most comprehensive and up-to-date information. Remember, conditions can change rapidly, so continue to monitor these resources throughout your journey if possible.

By staying informed through these various channels, you can make better decisions about when and where to drive, helping to ensure your safety on Australian roads during challenging weather conditions.

Conclusion: Reiterating the Vitality of Safe Driving Practices During Extreme Weather

As we’ve explored throughout this guide, driving in heavy rain and flood conditions presents unique challenges that demand our utmost attention and caution. The importance of adopting safe driving practices during extreme weather cannot be overstated – it’s quite literally a matter of life and death.

We’ve covered a range of crucial topics about driving in heavy rain and floods tips and advice for australians from preparing your vehicle for wet weather to understanding the risks of aquaplaning, and from recognizing flood dangers to knowing what to do in emergency situations. Each of these aspects plays a vital role in ensuring your safety on the road when Mother Nature unleashes her fury.

Remember, the decision to drive in severe weather conditions should never be taken lightly. If possible, it’s always safer to postpone your journey until conditions improve. However, if you must drive, being prepared and informed is your best defense against the hazards of extreme weather.

Key takeaways to keep in mind:

  1. Always reduce your speed and increase your following distance in wet conditions.
  2. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained, with particular attention to tyres, wipers, and lights.
  3. Never attempt to drive through floodwaters – turn around, don’t drown.
  4. Stay informed about weather and road conditions through reliable sources.
  5. Be prepared to change your plans if conditions worsen.

By internalizing these safe driving practices and making them second nature, you’re not just protecting yourself, but also contributing to the overall safety of Australian roads. Remember, every decision you make behind the wheel has the potential to impact not just your life, but the lives of your passengers and other road users.

As we face increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, the ability to adapt our driving habits becomes ever more crucial. By staying vigilant, prepared, and informed, we can navigate even the most challenging conditions safely.

Let’s commit to prioritizing safety over convenience, caution over haste, and responsibility over risk. After all, arriving late is always better than not arriving at all. Stay safe out there, Australia!

Additional Resources: Where to Find More Information on Vehicle Safety and Preparedness

To further enhance your knowledge and preparedness for driving in extreme weather conditions, I’ve compiled a list of valuable resources. These will provide you with in-depth information on vehicle safety, emergency preparedness, and specific guidelines for different weather scenarios.

  1. State Road Authorities:
  • Transport for NSW (https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/)
  • VicRoads (https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/)
  • Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland (https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/)
  • Main Roads Western Australia (https://www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/)
  • Department for Infrastructure and Transport South Australia (https://www.dit.sa.gov.au/)

These websites offer comprehensive information on road safety, including specific advice for driving in adverse weather conditions.

2. Royal Automobile Clubs:

  • NRMA (NSW & ACT): https://www.mynrma.com.au/
  • RACV (Victoria): https://www.racv.com.au/
  • RACQ (Queensland): https://www.racq.com.au/
  • RAC (Western Australia): https://rac.com.au/
  • RAA (South Australia): https://www.raa.com.au/

These organizations provide extensive resources on vehicle maintenance, road safety, and emergency preparedness.

  1. Australian Government:
  • Bureau of Meteorology (http://www.bom.gov.au/): For detailed weather forecasts and warnings.
  • Department of Home Affairs (https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/): Offers resources on disaster preparedness.
  1. State Emergency Services:
  • NSW SES (https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/)
  • Victoria SES (https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/)
  • Queensland SES (https://www.qld.gov.au/emergency/volunteering-jobs/volunteer/ses)

These services provide crucial information on flood safety and emergency response.

  1. ANCAP Safety (https://www.ancap.com.au/): For information on vehicle safety ratings and features.
  2. Austroads (https://austroads.com.au/): Provides research and guidelines on road safety.
  3. Australian Road Safety Foundation (https://arsf.com.au/): Offers educational resources on road safety.
  4. Floodplain Management Australia (https://www.floods.org.au/): Provides information on flood risks and management.
  5. Smartraveller (https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/): While primarily for international travel, it also offers advice on domestic travel safety.
  6. Local Council Websites: Check your local council’s website for area-specific information on flood-prone roads and local emergency procedures.

Remember, staying informed about driving in heavy rain and floods tips and advice for australians is a crucial part of staying safe. Regularly review these resources and keep emergency contact numbers handy. By being proactive about vehicle safety and preparedness, you’re taking significant steps towards ensuring your safety and the safety of others on Australian roads, no matter what weather conditions you might face

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