In adverse weather conditions, and even in good weather, its always a good idea to keep in mine, the limitations of both car and driver. Distractions such as other drivers, activities in the vehicle and road conditions can cause an accident. When the weather is bad, there is extra reason to be careful.

Driving through flooded areas can cause damage to your vehicle or put the vehicle's occupants in peril. Sometimes its not so dangerous as much as it is annoying to find an alternate route - but better safe than sorry.

Chances are a flooded underpass may do no more than damage your vehicle - but event that could be an expensive lesson.

It is difficult to assess the level of water covering a roadway or depression. Sometimes w ater may not look deep, but, the road or soil may be washed away. The water may also conceal hidden debris. Your best choice would be to stop, turn around and choose an alternate route to your destination.

Even water which appears calm may have strong currents. Six inches of swiftly moving water will sweep a person off his feet. It only takes two feet of water to carry away many cars.

Sport utility vehicles are just as susceptible to being swept away or stalling in high water as other cars. The vehicle may have greater ground clearance which is helpful in snow and mud, but not in water of unknown depth. In fact, the larger tires add to the vehicle's buoyancy, causing it to lose traction sooner.

If you live in a low-lying area pay attention to water levels during periods of heavy rains. Listen to media and weather service broadcasts for watches and warnings. Water levels rise rapidly and often without warning during flash flooding and heavy rains.