Rain in the San Antonio area can create a variety of hazards. Wet pavement on its own can be dangerous, as it increases stopping distance and limits the ability to maneuver abruptly. As precipitation levels increase, the hazards on the roads increase as well. Heavy rain can impact visibility while driving.
When torrential rain falls in the San Antonio area, flash flooding can sometimes occur. The combination of heavy rainfall with dry soil can lead to excessive runoff that makes the roads relatively dangerous. Motorists trying to navigate flooded streets are at significantly elevated risk of causing a crash.
What types of incidents are common in a flash flood scenario, and who is usually liable?
Standing water affects traction
Flash flooding can frequently lead to hydroplaning incidents. When there is enough water on the road to prevent vehicle tires from making contact with the pavement, drivers may struggle to control their vehicles.
Hydroplaning can prevent people from stopping or turning as they intend. It can also affect their acceleration on the road. Drivers who hydroplane can easily cause preventable crashes if they lose control of their vehicles due to the standing water on the road.
Heavy rainfall can sweep vehicles away
Some of the most dramatic video footage from flash floods involves vehicles swept away by rising flood waters. Those vehicles may then strike other nearby vehicles or even pedestrians trying to help those caught in the water.
Many people might view such incidents as acts of God that people cannot prevent. However, the reality is that drivers are typically liable for such incidents. Motorists can avoid dangerous scenarios by staying off the road during times of torrential rainfall.
If they must travel when it rains, they should appropriately adjust their habits. Slowing down, avoiding low-lying areas, leaving more space between vehicles and maneuvering gradually can all reduce the likelihood of hydroplaning. Drivers may need to reroute in cases where there is enough standing water to put them at risk of the water sweeping their vehicles away.
Those affected by flash flood collisions can theoretically hold drivers operating their vehicles negligently during the storm responsible for the crashes they cause when they lose control. Documenting what occurred and reviewing official reports with a lawyer can help people pursue compensation after a car crash related to flash flooding accordingly.