What should you do if you encounter a flooded roadway?

When encountering a flooded roadway, the best action to take is to turn around and seek an alternate, safer route. This response is crucial due to the unpredictable nature of floodwaters. Water levels can rise quickly and may conceal road hazards such as washed-out sections or debris, which can lead to accidents or become life-threatening if a vehicle gets stuck.

Driving through the water, even cautiously, poses serious risks. It's often difficult to gauge the depth of the water, and driving through it can cause damage to the vehicle or provoke loss of control. Furthermore, floodwaters can contain strong currents that could sweep a vehicle away.

Waiting for the water to subside or calling for assistance might also seem like reasonable options; however, these actions do not actively ensure safety immediately. It is most prudent to avoid the hazard entirely by finding a different, safer route. This approach minimizes the likelihood of encountering dangerous situations due to flooding.