NDDOT urges caution when traveling on flooded roads

The North Dakota Department of Transportation urges motorists to use caution while driving through flooded areas.

Road-closed signs and barricades are placed on roads and bridges for the safety of the traveling public. Motorists who drive around signs or move barricades are unnecessarily endangering their lives and taking serious risks.

The NDDOT offers the following tips about driving in flooded areas:

- Slow down and increase following distances. Speed limits are set for ideal road conditions. Be careful of standing and running water, a wet road is more slippery than a dry road. When there is water on the road, tires lose traction and adherence to the road.

- If the road is blocked by barricades, find another route. A road may look safe, but it could be washed out under the water or underneath the road surface and damage may not be visible to the motorist.

- Do not drive around barricades. Many water rescues have been caused by motorists ignoring warnings. The NDDOT will remove barricades and reopen roadways or bridges after inspecting them to make sure they are safe.

- Be aware of swift-moving water. If you are driving and come upon rapidly rising waters, turn around and find an alternate route. Rushing water can carry away most vehicles including SUVs and pick-ups.

- Due to high water near roadways in some areas across the state, motorists are encouraged to use caution while traveling. Vehicles that leave the roadway may become immersed in high water.

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