Tennessee Highway Patrol Reminds Drivers to Watch Out for Flood Waters
Wednesday, May 06, 2009 | 05:51am
Tips All Drivers Should Remember to Stay Dry & Alive
NASHVILLE --- As heavy rains saturate a large portion of Tennessee, the Tennessee Highway Patrol reminds all drivers of the dangers of driving in the rain and through flood waters. According to the National Weather Service, each year, more deaths are caused by flooding than from any other severe weather-related hazard. The main reason is people underestimate the power and strength of water.
Flash floods can come rapidly and can occur within a few minutes of excessive rainfall. However, most flood-related deaths and injuries could be avoided. THP offers these reminders to drivers:
- Do not drive through flooded areas. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find another route to your destination. Do not drive around barricades
- Don’t try to cross flooded roads where the water appears to be shallow. Water hides dips in the road. Worse yet, there may be no road at all under the water.
- If your car stalls, abandon it and climb to higher ground.
- One foot of water will float many vehicles.
- Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger vehicles, causing drivers to lose control of the car or possible stalling.
- Two feet of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles, including pick-up trucks and SUVs.
Sources: FEMA.gov, NOAA.gov
The Centers for Disease Control reports that more than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. It is against the law to drive around a barricade or flood warning sign. According to TCA 55-10-205 (c)(1), any driver who knowingly ignores a clearly visible and adequate flood warning sign or blockade and drives into a road area that is actually flooded is committing reckless driving. In addition to fines, the court may order the driver to pay restitution for the cost associated with any rescue efforts related to the violation.
On average, each year in Tennessee more than 28,000 traffic crashes occur in the rain. Drivers who need assistance while traveling in Tennessee can dial *THP (*847) from their cell phone to get help. You will be automatically connected to the nearest THP dispatch office, and the operator will send a Trooper to your location.
The Tennessee Department of Safety’s mission is (www.tennessee.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.