Study Reveals One-In-Three U.S. Motorists Will Confidently Drive Through Six Inches of Water

New data shows a number of drivers may steer themselves into danger should they encounter flooded roadways this spring

April showers bring May flowers, or so the saying goes. However, April showers also might present drivers across the country with a vexing question – how deep is too deep when it comes to driving through water on the roadway?

According to new survey data released today as part of the Farmers Insurance^® Seasonal Smarts Digest, one-in-three U.S. motorists (35%) say they are comfortable driving their vehicles through six inches of water.

A few inches of water may not seem like much when a driver is behind the wheel, but consider this – six inches of water is enough to reach the bottom of most passenger vehicles, according to FEMA. Just half a foot of water can, in some situations, cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles or worse – potentially stall in the middle of a flooded street and create a rescue situation for first responders.

“Spring storms, and the flooding and hail they may bring, often hit quickly with little or no warning, which means drivers across the country may be forced into situations where they need to make quick decisions on the road,” said Jim Taylor, head of claims customer experience for Farmers Insurance. “Drivers should always take into consideration alternative routes when faced with flooded streets since there is no way to know the exact depth of the water, as well as all the potential hazards hidden under water, such as downed powerlines.”

As if flooding wasn’t enough of a challenge to prepare for, those living in the central part of the United States also face a significant risk of hail damage during spring. In fact, hail damage accounts for more than half (55%) of all Farmers Comprehensive auto claims filed during spring, with some states like Texas and Colorado seeing more than two-thirds of each state’s comprehensive auto claims tied to hail each spring.

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