Road trauma is a leading cause of flood deaths 

Road trauma is a leading cause of flood deaths, with more lives lost in Queensland than anywhere else in Australia.  Driving into floodwater endangers lives, and places pressure on first responders, infrastructure and community safety efforts.  There is no sure-fire way for drivers to assess whether it is safe to cross a flooded road. All Queenslanders need to be aware of the risks and have a plan to stay safe.

Hidden Dangers

Our weather can change quickly and be unforgiving.  Floodwater hides the road, making it difficult to know what’s underneath. Visual cues only tell drivers what they can see above the water; they can’t reveal what’s happening beneath the surface.  If you’re looking for a sign it’s safe, that’s your sign to turn around.  

Watch Your car can't protect you from floodwater. If it's flooded, forget it. on YouTube.

Essential steps for severe weather road safety 

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Each storm, driver, car, and road is different, but one thing stays the same: floodwater is unpredictable.
If it's flooded, forget it image of car in flood water.
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Last updated: November 2026