As part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is reminding Hoosier drivers to review basic safety tips for traveling during dangerous weather conditions.

The BMV says drivers should be prepared for hazards such as heavy rain, flooding, and power outages, which can create dangerous situations on Indiana roadways.

Officials encourage drivers to review the Indiana Driver’s Manual, which is available at BMV branches and online. The manual outlines several safety practices for motorists during severe weather.

Drivers are urged to avoid traveling on bald or worn tires when roads are wet and to watch for motorcycles that may pull off the road or seek shelter under bridges. Wet pavement can also cause hydroplaning, especially shortly after rain begins.

The BMV notes that flash flooding is the deadliest weather-related roadway hazard each year. Drivers are warned not to drive around barricades, ignore road-closed signs, or attempt to cross flooded roads. If a vehicle stalls in floodwater, drivers should abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground.

If a vehicle becomes submerged in water, drivers are advised not to try to open the doors due to water pressure. Instead, they should exit through a window or sunroof and avoid re-entering the vehicle.

Drivers should also be cautious during power outages. If a traffic signal is not working, intersections should be treated as four-way stops-coming to a complete stop and proceeding carefully.

The BMV says its branches also have severe weather plans in place. Customers inside a branch during severe weather will be directed to interior rooms away from windows. Branches may also serve as shelter for anyone seeking safety during dangerous weather while offices are open.

The agency encourages Hoosiers to make responsible driving decisions and stay informed during severe weather events.

More information about BMV branch locations, online services, and 24-hour BMV Connect kiosks is available at IN.gov/BMV.