What if I drive into flood water?

UK roads have once again been hit by flooding... here's our guide on everything you need to know if you are affected.

• Never drive through water if you don't know how deep it is;

• If you do go through, drive slowly so as not to create a bow wave and let oncoming traffic pass before entering the water;

• Slip the clutch to keep revs up and avoid water in the exhaust causing the engine to stall;

• If you meet a flooded road suddenly and the tyres do lose contact with the ground and aquaplane, hold the steering wheel lightly and ease off the throttle;

• Remember, if you get water in the air intake at the front of the car, water will be sucked into the engine. Water is not compressible, so damage will be expensive and you could require a new engine. Turbo and diesel engines are most at risk;

• Test your brakes once you leave the water;

• If the water is flowing quickly, don't enter it. Cars are easily swept away;

• If you break down in heavy rain, keep the bonnet down, so that the car's electrical systems do not get soaked;

• If you drive through water too fast and soak pedestrians, you could be liable for up to nine penalty points on your licence if convicted of driving without consideration to other road users.