2023-08-11 17:49:34
With the torrential rains that fell in Ottawa on Thursday, motorists had a very unpleasant surprise. Several vehicles were abandoned, stuck in the middle of the street, while the roadway was flooded. Would you have known how to react safely? An expert answers your questions.
When you approach a puddle of water on the road, the main thing is not to try to cross it by telling yourself that, on the other side, it will be ok, launches Jesse Caron, expert in automobile for CAA-Quebec.
Between the two, we could have surprises.
Because there could be a drop or a deformation of the roadway, you must stop before the puddle.
The water can rise very quickly and overwhelm cars, preventing them from continuing on their way. In this case, shutting off the engine is a good idea, although it is possible for the engine to shut itself off due to water.
The expert also suggests turning on the hazard warning lights and getting out of the car if possible and safe. If the vehicle door is stuck, you can get out the window and take refuge on the roof of the car to call for help.
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Areas of Ottawa and Gatineau were flooded on Thursday after a thunderstorm passed through. (File photo)
Photo : Radio-Canada / Giacomo Panico/CBC
Am I in danger if I stay inside the passenger compartment?
The vehicles include several electrical components that could be damaged by water.
Mr. Caron explains that there is no real danger of a short circuit inside the vehicle because these systems pass away from the passenger compartment and there is insulation.
However, if the water rises inside the car, it is important to get out as quickly as possible since it is difficult to predict when the water level will begin to drop.
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The sky was threatening Thursday noon. (File photo)
Photo : Radio-Canada / Johan Savoy
What’s happening with my car?
You might be tempted to start your car’s engine once the water has receded and is on your way. This is a serious error, argues the CAA-Quebec expert.
As soon as water rises above the floor [de l’automobile]it is no longer safe to use it.
Generally, the next step is to call the insurer and report the situation, explains Mr. Caron. The vehicle will be labeled as unsalvageable.
This means that it will be impossible to sell or register it.
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The heavy rain flooded some Ottawa residences, including this one.
Photo : Radio-Canada / Matéo Garcia-Tremblay
And what happens with electric vehicles?
For electric vehicles, it is even more difficult to save them. The vehicle’s battery being under the floor, it is even more critical, he adds.
Of course, there are circuit breaker devices that will protect the passenger compartment and its occupants, but the risk of fire is very real.
With information from Camille Kasisi-Monet
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