If it's flooded, forget it, says RACV

RACV is reminding Victorian motorists that puddles are for jumping in gumboots, not driving through in cars, as wet weather is set to arrive this week.

RACV General Manager Automotive Services Makarla Cole said while it might be tempting to run the gauntlet and power through that puddle, your car has other ideas.

"RACV has responded to an average of 1,200 call outs a year in 2024 and 2025 for cars that have become bogged in mud, sand, rain or flooded grass and paddocks — and in some severe cases, we have to call for reinforcements to help rescue the member and car," Ms Cole said.

"Just 15cm of flowing water—about the height of your average house brick—can push a small car sideways. RACV recommends following this golden rule – if it’s flooded, forget it.

“At 30cm, your car can start to struggle. Avoid floodwaters where you can and save yourself a call to RACV or a spot on the evening news, Ms Cole said.

What's lurking under floodwaters there?

Floodwater could contain surprise potholes, powerlines or even currents.:

"What looks like an innocent puddle could be hiding a metre-deep crater where the road used to be," Ms Cole said.

The golden rule: If it's flooded, forget it

When you see a flooded road:

• Turn around. Yes, even if you watched a car JUST make it through.
• Find another route. Your GPS won't judge you for the detour.
• Don't walk through it either—water doesn't discriminate between pedestrians and vehicles.
• Already in too deep? Get out and get to high ground immediately.
• If you're trapped with water flowing fast, call 000 and stay put until the professionals arrive.

Other wet weather wisdom

Here’s some other tips from RACV for driving in the wet:

• Headlights on, even in daylight, so you can be seen in the rain.
• Slow down and double your following distance—tailgating is dangerous, and illegal.
• Leave earlier than you think you need to—being fashionably late loses its charm when you're explaining the accident.
• If visibility drops, pull over somewhere safe (not under trees, they're surprisingly bad at staying upright in storms).

Check bom.gov.au for weather updates or download the VicEmergency App.