Driver has to swim from submerged car in Bellevue during rain

Today’s torrential rain in Western Washington has created landslides, flood warnings, and for one driver, a chance to get a swim in. Several roadways in Bellevue have ample standing water, with one seeing up to four feet. Not that it stopped one adventurous driver.

“One of those roadways, Southeast Seventh Place has about four feet of water over it. And a motorist decided that it would be a good idea to drive their really nice Mercedes into the water, and unfortunately, they got stuck,” Bellevue Officer Seth Tyler told KIRO Radio. “They were able to swim out to safety … they actually got out before police arrived, and they’re a home and they’re they’re fine. The top of the roof of the car is only visible.”

Record rain slams Western Washington with flooding, landslides

“What probably happened is that their engine was completely covered in water. And that’s really the last thing you want to have happen. I’m sure the car will be totaled by the insurance company.”

Sufficed to say, if you see standing water or a road closure sign, do not drive into it. Your wipers will not get you out of this situation.

“The advice that we have is if you see standing water and you don’t know how deep it is, do not drive into it. Turn around, don’t drown.”

Tyler says flooding out your engine isn’t your only worry in floodwaters. Your tires may hydroplane and lose contact with the road, you could get electrocuted or come in contact with toxic water.

Flooding was seen on freeways and roads across the Friday morning commute, with standing water reported on northbound 405, Airport Way in Seattle, Pacific Avenue in Tacoma, southbound I-5 at the Berkeley exit, and 76th Avenue South in Kent.

We. Are. Not. Joking! Do not drive through high water. Luckily, this driver swam to safety. 12600 Blk SE 7th Pl is CLOSED! Please be careful! pic.twitter.com/Cb1HKYCIdO

— Bellevue, WA Police (@BvuePD) December 20, 2019

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