Water-Covered Roads And Accident Risks In Florida

Orlando is no stranger to heavy rains, particularly during the hurricane season and periods of intense storms. These weather events can create dangerous driving conditions, and one of the biggest hazards is when drivers encounter water-covered roads.

Staying cautious around water-filled areas is essential. If you were involved in an accident on a flooded road, legal help is available to ensure you get the support you need. Connect with an Orlando personal injury attorney to learn more.

Why Flooding Happens in Orlando

Flooding in the Orlando area is largely due to the region’s geography and climate. Orlando’s low-lying areas, combined with the state’s frequent heavy rainfalls, make it prone to temporary flooding. Poorly maintained drainage systems or clogged storm drains can also contribute to flooding, as can runoff from nearby construction projects.

Driving on water-covered roads requires extreme caution. You need to remember that the first thing you can do to protect yourself from harm is to simply avoid driving through an area that is inundated with water. Just six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose control or stall, and deeper water can sweep a vehicle away entirely.

How to navigate potentially flooded roads:

• Turn around. if you see a flooded street, it’s safer to find an alternate route than to risk driving through. The depth of the water is hard to judge and you may not be able to see hazards like potholes or debris underneath the surface.
• Drive slowly. When you have no choice but to proceed through shallow water, drive slowly and steadily. Avoid sudden stops or sharp turns, as this could cause your tires to lose traction.
• Maintain a safe distance. Water on the road can make stopping more difficult, so keep extra space between you and other vehicles.
• Test your brakes. After driving through water, tap your brakes lightly to ensure they are working properly.

Even with these precautions, Floridians have been hurt in accidents on water-covered roads. Hydroplaning, reduced visibility, and hidden road damage can all contribute to collisions during or after a flood.

Accountability and Insurance After a Water-Related Accident

Determining accountability can be tricky if you’re involved in an accident due to flooded roads. In some cases, poor city maintenance, such as inadequate drainage or lack of warning signs, may make local authorities or municipalities liable, but proving this in court can be difficult without solid evidence.

In most cases, drivers will need to rely on their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage to handle medical expenses and lost wages. Florida is a no-fault state, meaning PIP insurance is required for all drivers and covers the immediate costs after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. An experienced Orlando personal injury attorney can help you explore your options.

Were you hurt while driving on a water-covered road in the Orlando area? While PIP coverage may help with initial expenses, the skilled attorneys at Israoui Law can assist in determining if any third parties are liable and help you pursue additional compensation. For the personal attention you deserve, call 407-381-4529.  Always speak to an experienced injury lawyer before speaking to any insurance company.