More than half in NE would drive through flood water
More than half of drivers from the North East would risk putting themselves and their passengers in danger by driving through flood water, according to new research.
The Environment Agency and the AA are reminding people that attempts to drive through flood water can be life threatening, and say no one should take the risk.
The Flood Action Campaign survey has found that almost half of those over 65 would drive through flood water compared to 40% of 18 – 24 year olds.
That’s despite the AA being called out to 22,817 flood rescues in the past five years.
John Curtin, Executive Director of Flood and Coastal Risk Management at the Environment Agency, said:
“The sheer number of people of all ages who wouldn’t think twice about a potentially fatal decision to drive through a flood is deeply worrying. Our message is simple: don’t.
“It’s so easy to check if your route is affected by flooding, our warnings and alerts are updated every 15 minutes. If you see flood water on the road ahead, you should avoid unnecessary misery and turn around and go another way.”
Olly Kunc, AA Director of Road Operations, says:
“While it’s easy to assume it will never happen to you, even the most experienced driver could be out of their depth in flood water. Last year, more than 2,500 AA members became stranded while attempting to pass through a waterlogged road.
“Even a small amount of water ingested through the air intake will wreck the engine, while 30cm of fast-flowing water could float your car. Flood water is dangerous and masks other hazards, so it’s just not worth the risk to you, your passengers and those who have to rescue you for the sake of a few miles’ detour.”
The Environment Agency’s flood warning service is free and updated every 15 minutes: