If it was not for the fact that we are having extreme weather and events all across the U.S., I’d say leave it to Georgia and Atlanta to be 106 degrees one day (breaking any record temp ever set mind you!!!) and then have 3 inches of rain fall in less than an hour a couple days later! But there seems to be extreme weather all over. But when it rains 3 inches in an hour, NO Virginia, Your Car CAN”T SWIM!
I am amazed when on the freeways (or do we call them Interstates here?) around Atlanta and it’s raining that many drivers still think they are invincible with that 5,000 pound of metal and rubber surrounding them. Sadly, when the hit that standing water in the street or on the freeway, they are going to be in for a surprise! 1) they just might hydroplane their sorry a– into a median wall (and let’s hope and pray they don’t take out one or two other cars in the process, or 2) they are going to drown the engine and end up stranded.
When the heavy Southern rains arrive, you need to watch for standing water when on the road. If you think it’s to deep to cross, it probably is! There are several places I know of on a regular basis along the Buford Highway Connector and I-85 that will retain water if it rains very heavy for a period of time. But if you are not familiar with the road you are on, error on the side of caution, and turn around.
What’s the risk if you decide to be Jacques Cousteau and forge ahead? Well…..
- flooding the engine
- warping brake rotors
- disabling power steering
- short out the electrical system (and THEN try to unlock those POWER Door locks!)
Such damage to a car may, or may NOT be covered by your car insurance. These are most likely covered under your comprehensive coverage, one that you are not required to have.
So the next time you fly down I-85, remember, NO Virginia, Your Car CAN’T SWIM and you could be risking your life and those on the road around you!
