The Philippines is expected to experience 13 to 18 tropical cyclones in 2024. During heavy rainfall, many drivers may encounter flooded streets on their commute. The situation can worsen with heavy traffic and public transportation issues. If you find yourself driving in a downpour and the streets start to resemble outdoor pools, here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind.

BEFORE

• Avoid Flooded Roads. Regardless of your vehicle type, whether an SUV or a subcompact hatchback, it's wise to steer clear of flooded roads. You can't always see what lies beneath the water’s surface, such as open manholes, roadwork, or deep potholes

• Find Alternate Routes. Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps to identify alternative routes around the flood. These apps can help you avoid other flooded areas and reach your destination safely

• Know Flood-Prone Areas. Be aware of roads historically prone to flooding. Avoiding these routes can help keep your car dry and minimize the risk

DURING

• Assess Water Depth. Avoid driving through floodwaters that are six inches or deeper. Nighttime driving is particularly risky as it’s hard to gauge the depth. Twelve inches of water can move a small car, and two feet of water can dislodge or carry your vehicle

• Evaluate the Situation. Slow down or stop and assess the flood’s depth. If you can't see other vehicles navigating the water or if the water level is high, it's safest to turn around

• Avoid Misjudgment. Many accidents occur due to misjudging the water's depth. If the water level is higher than half the height of your car wheels, turn around and seek dry land immediately

• Drive Slowly. If you must drive through a flood, do so slowly and steadily, keeping your vehicle in the center of the road. Deeper floods can obscure the road ahead, making it difficult to see

• Keep the Engine Revving. Maintain high engine revs, especially if you drive a manual car. Stay in first gear to prevent stalling if water enters the exhaust system

AFTER

• Assessment. Conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle for any signs of flood damage. Use the guide below to assess the extent of the flood:

  • Floor to Stepboard Height

    Remove any standing water from the vehicle’s interior, then thoroughly clean and disinfect affected areas to prevent mold. Check the brakes and use a blower to dry the underbody. If the undercarriage or interior parts were affected, have them professionally detailed and dried to prevent rust and odors

  • Seat Level to Roof Height

    Follow the same steps as above, but disconnect the car battery, as it may be compromised. Do not attempt to start the engine, as it could cause further damage due to electrical grounding. Detach the battery cable and arrange for towing to an accredited repair shop for a proper diagnosis. If the floodwaters remain high for an extended period, ensure your vehicle is secured

• Documentation. Take photos and make detailed notes of all visible damage to support your insurance claim

• Potential Claim. Notify Lockton immediately if you plan to file a claim. Do not dispose of any damaged parts without prior approval from the insurer

By following these steps, you can manage flood damage effectively and streamline your claims process. For any questions or additional support, feel free to reach out. Stay safe.