NYSDOT Reminds Motorists To Drive Safely During Storm

ALBANY, NY (06/13/2013)(readMedia)-- The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) today reminded motorists to drive with caution during and after this week's heavy rain storm, and offered tips for keeping safe if roads become flooded.

Flooding could occur if streams and rivers overflow their banks or if anticipated rainfall is significant in duration and intensity. Flash flooding can occur rapidly and unexpectedly and can be particularly dangerous to motorists stranded on the roads.

NYSDOT offers the following driving tips:

• Do not drive through flooded areas. Even if the water appears shallow enough to cross, don't try it. Water hides dips in the road. Worse yet, there may be no road at all under the water. Flooding can scour away the entire road surface and a significant amount of ground beneath.

• If there is no other route, get to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.

• If your car stalls, abandon it and climb to higher ground.

Motorists should be aware that only six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling. Two feet of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles, including SUVs and pick-ups.

NYSDOT's free travel information service, 511NY, offers information about road closures due to flooding. Motorists can dial 5-1-1 or visit www.511NY.org before traveling to check road and bridge conditions.

Follow New York State DOT on Twitter: @NYSDOT. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/NYSDOT.

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