South Carolina Driver's Permit Practice Exam

What action should you take if you approach a flood and are unsure of the road conditions?

1. Drive through slowly

2. Make a U-turn

3. Turn around and find an alternative route

4. Stop and wait for the water to recede

The correct answer is: Turn around and find an alternative route

When approaching a flood and unsure of the road conditions, turning around and finding an alternative route is the safest and most prudent action to take. Floodwaters can appear deceptively calm but may be deeper than they seem, posing serious risks to your vehicle and your safety. By choosing to reroute, you avoid the dangers associated with driving through potentially hazardous water, such as losing vehicle control, being swept away, or encountering submerged obstacles that could cause accidents. Making a U-turn can sometimes put you in a risky position, especially if the water is on both sides or if it leads you back into danger. Driving through slowly might give a false sense of security, but the water could still exceed the capabilities of your vehicle, leading to significant risks. Stopping and waiting for the water to recede is not advisable since conditions can change rapidly, and staying in a vulnerable position may expose you to additional risks. Finding an alternative route ensures that you are making a proactive decision to maintain safety.