Flood warnings issued throughout the South West over this past weekend showed just how volatile UK weather actually is. Thursday was dry and calm yet by Friday evening the weather turned to torrential rain fuelled by strong winds.
Trying to drive through fast flowing water is extremely hazardous and many vehicles on South West roads simply gave up the ghost and broke down.
It is in situations like this that drivers start to appreciate the real value of breakdown cover which is offered alongside car insurance policies by many insurers.
Premiums tend to be very reasonable and to be able to secure valuable assistance by making a single telephone call to a company trusted by your insurer is immeasurable in these circumstances.
Ask any driver that has had the harrowing experience of being caught in a country lane by the sight of a rush of water coming down the hill towards you at speed and you will always receive the same response – scary!!
Anyone caught in such a situation should firstly consider whether they would be better advised to drive through the water or attempt to drive away from it.
Either way, slow down. but keep the revs up and slowly try to navigate your way through to higher ground. Be careful to keep an eye on any banks for signs of possible collapse as you go.
If the engine fails, contact your breakdown cover provider immediately, if possible, get yourself and passengers to higher ground and in out of the rain.
Whatever you do, do not panic, think calmly and quickly, if there is anyone in the car that is unable to walk etc. or in need of medical assistance, contact the emergency services immediately.