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As wet weather impacts the state, RAA is reminding motorists that even shallow floodwater can hide serious dangers including fast-moving currents, washed-out road surfaces, debris and deep potholes.
RAA Senior Traffic Engineer Matthew Vertudaches said no destination was worth risking a life.
“Floodwater is often deeper and moving much faster than it appears,” Mr Vertudaches said.
“Drivers can’t see what’s beneath the surface. The road may have been damaged, washed away or hiding debris capable of immobilising a vehicle.
“Many people assume they’ll get through safely, particularly in a four-wheel drive, but floodwater doesn’t discriminate.
“Once water builds up against a vehicle’s side, it can push the car off the road. There’s also the risk of water being drawn into the engine through the air intake, causing significant and costly damage.
“If the road is covered by water, the safest decision is to turn around and find another route.
“Flooded roads can quickly become life-threatening, and the inconvenience of turning around is nothing compared to the consequences of getting it wrong.”
RAA is reminding motorists to: