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How Hurricane Ida Flood Waters Can Cause Car Accidents in New York

Last week, the people of New York City witnessed a weather phenomenon when Hurricane Ida brought severe rain to the city, requiring hundreds of evacuations and emergency responses. While natural rivers and streams rose around the tri-state area during and after Ida, here in the city, our roads became rivers of their own. New York City car accident lawyers are now witnessing a new accident pattern in many parts of the area: car accidents caused by standing water left from this unprecedented flooding.

In New York, we encounter many different types of traffic issues that can create accidents, but floodwater is not usually one of them. Unfortunately, Hurricane Ida turned streets into lakes and rivers and created flooded areas where accidents are continuing to happen.

How Standing Water on Pavement Can Impact Car Travel

Since last Wednesday, the unprecedented level of precipitation and consequential flooding have created dangerous scenarios for those trying to navigate the city. For those caught on flooded streets or who still need to transgress flooded areas by car, flooding can create unpredictable conditions and be an accident just waiting to happen.

Drivability on flooded streets is compromised at best and deadly at worst, leading to serious accidents. Extra caution is required and drivers need to adjust their behavior and take particular care when driving in flooded areas.

No matter how familiar a driver is with the road, all it takes is a few inches of water to hide the surface of the roadway and potential dips, debris, curbs, and washed-out areas. Even the best tire tread provides little traction in water. Most passenger cars may succumb to flooded exhaust systems with a few inches of water, leaving the vehicle and passengers stuck. Considering how flooding may have affected roadways, traffic flow, and vehicle operation can help avoid serious car accidents and injuries.

Driving On Flooded Streets

While driving on flooded streets should be avoided if at all possible, when it is absolutely necessary, there are some tips to ensure that it is done as safely as possible.