Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands offers tips before, during, and after flood

THE WOODLANDS, Texas — If area residents learned anything from the torrential rains last month, it’s that Houston and The Woodlands are vulnerable to flooding. Now, with Tropical Storm Bill making its way through our area less than a month into hurricane season, the threat of high water is a reality once again.

“The widespread flooding we experienced in May damaged or destroyed an estimated 10,000 vehicles. Because we’ve entered hurricane season, we’re going to continue to face an increase in weather events that can cause flooding,” said Bob Milner, co-owner of Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands. Milner stressed the importance of following a few, simple guidelines when heavy rain causes unexpected high water while area drivers are on the road.

TURN AROUND:

There is risk in traversing even a small patch of flooded roadway. Milner said as little as 6 inches of water can damage an engine. Of course, drivers want to make it home before the water rises, but if the roads are full of water and they decide to keep going, they may end up spending the night stranded in your vehicle, or worse.

BARRICADES ARE THERE FOR A REASON:

Never go around road barricades. They may be blocking washed out bridges and roads that are not apparent if the water is rising. Milner said to keep in mind that a car can stall in as little as 12 inches of water. In 2 feet of water, tires can become unintended flotation devices.

IF DRIVING THROUGH WATER IS UNAVOIDABLE:

If someone must drive through even a minimal amount of standing water, they should drive slowly and steadily, Milner said. Never drive through water where there are downed electrical lines, and watch out for floating debris. Milner said that when the driver is back on a safe, dry roadway, they should carefully pump the brakes to help dry the brakes pads and rotors.

GET TO HIGHER GROUND:

If all else fails, and a driver is caught in fast-rising water, they should get out of the car and walk to higher ground. “Don’t take unnecessary risk. If the water is getting higher, and there’s no way for your car to escape it, exit the vehicle and find a safe place. You can get another car. Don’t put your own life in danger,” said Milner.

NOW WHAT?

The damage caused by driving through floodwater is a nightmare scenario for car owners. Damage could be minor, but the typical car owner can’t know for sure. Continuing to drive a vehicle without getting it checked out can cause serious, irreparable damage. There could be water in the fluids, brakes and bearings. Many of a car’s electronic components, connectors and wires are under the seats and carpet, so any water could cause corrosion.

If a driver’s vehicle has stalled out in high water, they should not attempt to start it. Flood water is filled with dirt, and starting the car will send those dirt particles throughout the entire engine, causing further damage.

Milner said the first step in taking care of a flooded vehicle is for the owner to call their insurance company immediately. “Remember, you’re not the only one who has incurred damage. The sooner you are in the queue to speak to an adjuster, the sooner you will be able to have your claim approved and arrange for a rental car and repair of your vehicle.”

Milner also stressed that it is important to do whatever possible to get rid of water in the vehicle, such as using a shop-vac to remove standing water inside the car. Open the doors and windows to air out the car. This will lessen the likelihood of mold later on down the line.

Drivers can rest a lot easier by bringing their vehicles in for a thorough evaluation by one of Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands’ MBUSA certified technicians. “Our top-of-the-line service department will inspect your mechanical and electrical components as well as the car’s fluid systems. Once you know what kind of damage you’re dealing with you can make an informed to choice about the future of your car,” said Milner.

“It’s never fun to endure a severe weather event like flash flooding, but our highly trained technicians are there for Mercedes-Benz owners every step of the way. We know that your Mercedes-Benz vehicle is an extension of who you are, and we make it our job to get you back on the road with as much ease and as little disruption as possible.”

For more information: Visit the Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands showroom at 16917 Interstate 45 North, call their showroom at 936-206-7500, or view their website at the link provided below.