Just days before Storm Bert unleashed chaos across the UK, more than half of drivers weren’t worried about flooding in their area, according to an AA survey. Out of over 11,000 drivers polled, 55% said they weren’t concerned, and 36% believed local flood defences were good enough to protect the roads.
Reality hit hard, though. Flooded roads, stranded cars, and overwhelmed transport routes proved that confidence was misplaced—49% of respondents had thought motorways would escape flood damage, but they didn’t. Jack Cousens, the AA’s head of policy, told Auto Express, “it’s [more] a case of inexperience and naivety, rather than complacency”.
Some drivers ignored warnings entirely. In Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire, a video went viral showing a tractor powering through floodwaters. The move earned criticism for its impact on local businesses, as shopfronts were damaged by waves from the vehicle.
Cousens reminded drivers of the risks, warning that “Depending on the circumstances, police may consider driving offences such as driving without due care and attention, or driving without reasonable consideration for other road users.”
“The priority for anyone is to remain safe, so checking your route before setting off is key. Remain wary of standing water and leave a bigger gap than usual between yourself and the vehicle in front,” Cousens added. “Not only is it impossible to judge water’s depth, often there are also things lurking under the surface, such as huge branches and other debris, that cause vehicles to come to a halt.”
As councils like Hertfordshire report roads breaking apart, the true extent of the damage caused by Storm Bert remains unclear. Until then, drivers are urged to check for road closures online before traveling.
